The Outsiders: Is "Minnesota Nice" to newcomers?

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Listen: The Outsiders: Is "Minnesota Nice" to newcomers?
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We Minnesotans take pride in our reputation for friendliness. The catchphrase "Minnesota Nice" has become something of a cultural motto. But what's it really like to be NEW to Minnesota? The answer is complex. Young transplants from outside the state say the flip side of Minnesota Nice is an insular culture that keeps newcomers at a comfortable distance. They say making friends and finding a sense of community here is daunting. While the problem is hard to measure, business leaders and others who track economic growth are concerned. They say Minnesotans are not doing enough to welcome newcomers into their fold, and that can have consequences for the state's economic future.

Funders

In 2008, Minnesota's voters passed the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment to the Minnesota Constitution: to protect drinking water sources; to protect, enhance, and restore wetlands, prairies, forests, and fish, game, and wildlife habitat; to preserve arts and cultural heritage; to support parks and trails; and to protect, enhance, and restore lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater.

Efforts to digitize this initial assortment of thousands of historical audio material was made possible through the Minnesota Legacy Amendment’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. A wide range of Minnesota subject matter is represented within this collection.

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