Minneapolis, MN – Over 800 people marched here on March 23 to demand “Justice for Jeilani.” Half of the protesters were Somali immigrants. The march to the Hennepin County Government Center was a strong statement against the attacks on their community. Less than two weeks earlier, Abu Kassim Jeilani, a Somali man, died after Minneapolis police officers shot him at least 16 times. Police had followed him for blocks, claiming he was a threat because he carried a machete at his side. He was gunned down after placing his hand on a squad car. All police officers were at least 10 feet away from Mr. Jeilani when they shot him. Protesters say this brutal response was unwarranted, and demand prosecution of the police involved in the shooting. Friends and family reported that Mr. Jeilani had been suffering from an episode of mental illness after a recent visit from the FBI. He was afraid that he was in danger from authorities.

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