Welcome to season 2 of the INTERCONNECTED conversation series hosted by the Center for Rural Policy & Development and the Citizens League.

Wherever you live, you have undoubtedly encountered the term “Urban/Rural Divide” that describes a divisive narrative in policy and politics based on geographic differences. In reality, we all want similar things – good healthcare and education, for example – but the solutions often look different based on where you live. How can we build understanding between these communities?

On Thursday, February 24, 2022 we had a candid conversation exploring shared challenges and opportunities in both rural and urban areas.

Panelists: 

Kate Cimino – Executive Director, Citizens League
Benya Kraus – Executive Director and Co-Founder of Lead for MN
Julie Tesch – President & CEO, Center for Rural Policy & Development

Moderated by: 
Christina Palladino
, Senior Principal, Park Street Public


About the Series
Minnesotans often use the phrase “rural-urban divide” when talking about the values and priorities that seem to differ across our state. But in reality, our challenges and opportunities are truly interconnected – though the solutions we design may look a bit different in Minneapolis compared to Mankato, or in Brainerd vs. Bloomington. This conversation series – hosted by the Center for Rural Policy and Development and the Citizens League – will bridge the divide between urban & rural Minnesota by exploring our shared challenges and how to design a future that works for our unique communities. Each event will begin with a look at CRPD’s latest research, followed by a panel discussion with speakers from urban and rural areas.