Maine has never demonized its entire community for the actions of a few bad actors within our ranks. We owe the same consideration to the Somali community in Lewiston, Portland, the state of Minnesota and beyond.

In 2023, Martin’s Point Health Care was fined $22.5 million for making false Medicare claims. This was the largest Medicare fine ever paid in Maine.

During the lengthy investigation, two different CEOs served Martin’s Point. Both were white. Neither was Somali. Despite the fine, no one was prosecuted for this complex, systemic case of fraud.

In Minnesota, and elsewhere, a few Somali residents have also committed fraud. The Somalis, like every ethnic group, include most people who are outstanding, productive citizens and other people who are dreadful criminals. 

I do not remember any movement to penalize all white Mainers because of the Martin’s Point crime. I think we owe the same respect to our Somali neighbors.

Susan Martin
Auburn