In October 2002, former mayor of Lewiston Laurier T. Raymond wrote an open letter addressed to leaders of the Somali immigrant community, predicting a negative impact on the city's social services and requesting that they discourage further relocation to the town.
The letter angered some persons and prompted various community leaders and residents to speak out against the mayor, drawing national attention.
In January 2003, a small white supremacist group demonstrated in the city in support of the mayor, prompting a simultaneous counter-demonstration of about 4,000 people at Bates College and the organization of the "Many and One Coalition".
It received very positive reviews including an endorsement and high recommendation from the Southern Poverty Law Center.
It continues to be shown across the globe especially nowadays when issues of immigration and refugee resettlement are once again ignited by the various wars around the world.