DiscoverMPR News with Angela DavisRural Voice: Building a sense of belonging in Willmar
Rural Voice: Building a sense of belonging in Willmar

Rural Voice: Building a sense of belonging in Willmar

Update: 2025-10-02
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Willmar, Minn., is one of the most diverse cities in greater Minnesota. More than 25 different languages are spoken in its school system, and immigrants hailing from east Africa, Mexico, Myanmar and central America have revitalized its downtown.


So on Sept. 8, Kerri Miller took the Rural Voice town hall series to Foxhole Brewhouse in Willmar to talk with community members about how they’ve successfully built an inclusive city.



Rural Voice in Willmar



































The conversation focused on how the region evolved over the last few decades to include immigrations from Africa, Mexico and other countries and discuss the positive impact that integration has had on the local culture and economy. Participants also discussed ongoing challenges, like political representation for newcomers and institutional discrimination.


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Rural Voice: Building a sense of belonging in Willmar

Rural Voice: Building a sense of belonging in Willmar

Minnesota Public Radio