Ilhan Omar, who will become the nation's first Somali-American lawmaker when she begins her term in the Minnesota Legislature next year, said Wednesday she was subjected to "hateful" Islamophobic and sexist taunts from a cabdriver in Washington D.C. Omar, who will represent Minneapolis as a state representative, said on Facebook she was on her way back from the White House when the incident occurred.

I spent yesterday afternoon at the White House, learning about policy ideas states could implement in the areas I am passionate about. On my way to our hotel, I got in a cab and became subjected to the most hateful, derogatory, Islamophobic, sexist taunts and threats I have ever experienced.



The cab driver called me ISIS and threatened to remove my hijab, I wasn't really sure how this encounter would end as I attempted to rush out of his cab and retrieve my belongs. I am still shaken by this incident and can't wrap my head around how bold being are becoming in displaying their hate towards Muslims. I pray for his humanity and for all those who harbor hate in their hearts.

When asked about filing a complaint, Omar said "I plan to report once I am back home safe in Minneapolis, he knows the hotel I am staying at and don't feel safe enough to say anything at the moment."

The Pioneer Press reported that Omar will represent a district in Minneapolis that's home to the largest Somali population outside of the east African country.