The Somali refugees began to arrive in Lewiston, Maine from their homeland in Africa, where there was a violent war going on. They migrated here looking for peace and quiet, cheaper places to live, better schools and a better place to raise their children. More than 1000 Somalis, including blacks and Muslims, have settled in Lewiston.

The welfare system in Lewiston is one of the most generous systems in the State of Maine. This is another reason the Somalis migrated there. They are able to receive money for housing, food and clothing. Somalis are known to be hard workers and provide a good life for their families.

If there are too many Somalis living in Lewiston they will begin to migrate to other cities including Portland, Augusta and Bath to find a place to live and work. Maine offers these people a safe place to live and work. Migration can cause change, though. Some people in Maine are not happy that people migrate here. They think that the Somalis take jobs and resources away from native Mainers. This change can cause conflict, but if people are understanding, then everyone can live happily.

Kenny
4A
3/7/03

Back to Time Line