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Maine should take enormous pride in the fact that South Portland made history by electing the first Somali-born woman mayor in the United States. Deqa Dhalac served her community with such dedication and skill that voters later chose her to represent them in the Maine Legislature. That same year, Rep. Dhalac and Rep. Mana Abdi became the first Somali legislators elected in Maine — milestones that should be sources of pride for all of us.
I have had the privilege of serving alongside both women for the past four years, and I am a better legislator and person for that experience.
That is why the news that Dhalac will not seek re-election, due to the racism and harassment she has endured, feels especially heavy. It is heartbreaking that the same state that elevated her leadership has also treated her so poorly that she feels compelled to step away from the Legislature, and perhaps public service altogether. Sadly, BIPOC elected officials across the country are facing similar treatment, discouraging invaluable public servants from continuing their work.
This is a tremendous loss for South Portland and for all of Maine. I will deeply miss Dhalac’s leadership, voice, and presence.
Racism may feel louder and more visible now, but it has always been here — in our country and in our beautiful state. That truth calls for action and systemic change. We cannot look away, and we cannot afford to lose courageous leaders from public service when we need them most.
Rep. Nina A. Milliken
Blue Hill
