The Independence Day of Somalia is a national holiday observed annually in Somalia, and the diaspora worldwide as a representation of their significant milestone, and symbolizing their sovereignty and self-determination. The Somali people have a rich and vibrant history, marked by their struggle for independence and the establishment of the Somali Republic whereby the Somali Republic was formed on July 1, 1960, as a unification of the Trust Territory of Italian Somaliland and British Somaliland. The Somali community in Columbus Ohio is part of the fabric of this city, with many community organizations, businesses, and cultural centers throughout. Similar to many immigrant groups before them, Somali Americans sought shelter in Columbus  to escape war and persecution, to find opportunities, and to better their lives and the lives of their children.  It’s important to bring Somali culture to the suburbs to make sure Somali residents are able to maintain their culture and others are able to learn more about it.