Before any paperwork is signed, before any treaties are negotiated, we should probably spend more time together.
Current Cross-Border Reality:
Manitobans and Minnesotans already cross the border constantly:
- Shopping trips (Grand Forks, Fargo, Minneapolis)
- Lake vacations (Lake of the Woods, boundary waters)
- Sports events (Jets/Wild games, NCAA tournaments)
- Family visits (many families span the border)
But these are individual choices. A formal Cultural Exchange Program would deepen understanding systematically.
Proposed Programs:
Student Exchange:
- High school semester exchanges between Manitoba and Minnesota schools
- University credit reciprocity agreements
- Graduate research partnerships between U of M (Winnipeg), U of M (Twin Cities), Brandon University, etc.
Professional Exchange:
- Municipal government staff exchanges (city planners, emergency services, etc.)
- Healthcare professional rotations
- Teacher exchanges
Artist Residencies:
- Manitoba artists in Minneapolis/St. Paul
- Minnesota artists in Winnipeg
- Joint exhibitions, performances, collaborations
Agricultural Exchange:
- Farmer-to-farmer programs
- Shared research on prairie agriculture challenges
- Joint approaches to climate adaptation
The Goal:
Before we become family officially, let's act like family. Spend time in each other's homes. Learn each other's quirks. Discover what we have in common (a lot) and what makes us different (also valuable).
Discussion Questions:
- Which exchange programs should be prioritized?
- How do we fund these programs equitably?
- What existing cross-border programs could be expanded?
- How do we ensure rural communities benefit, not just Winnipeg and Twin Cities?