For a while, we have seen some...passionate people say we should get rid of immigrants and stop integration. After all, they're responsible for the issues we see in Europe, right?
Well, it's a yes and no.
I certainly will not doubt that some immigrants/refugees aren't perfect (that is human nature). Unfortunately, some of them take advantage of welfare systems or try to abuse their freedom to restrict the freedom of others. However, it seems like people think we only have the options to accept all of them or deport them all.
We don't need any of that. Just looking at Minnesota and we see very similar problems:
1. Stagnant economy
2. High amounts of immigrants.
3. Had issues with labor force.
4. Minimum wage was not suitable for many.
http://tcbmag.com/News/Recent-News/2017/February/How-Minnesota-s-Success-Is-Dependent-On-Immigrants
http://www.cnbc.com/2015/06/24/biggest-state-economic-turnaround-story-minnesota.html
These articles showed that the state I live in wasn't exactly the most gorgeous place for the past five years. With a very high amount of Somalis too, I am sure many people probably thought Minnesota will turn into a wasteland.
Thankfully, the opposite happened. So, what gives? They went from having a several billion dollar deficit to having one of the fastest growing economies in the US. Higher taxes (with big increases on the rich)? We benefited! Unlike the poor regions of other major cities, you won't have to worry about being shot in the poor regions of the Twin Cities. We have many things such as constantly improved roads, which are vital for a very snowy/rainy state. We are also one of the happiest and kindest states. Minnesota also features a lot in terms of scenery, with 10,000 lakes and unbelievably gorgeous forests.
We are always overlooked, and I wonder why? We turned ourselves around, and yet it seems like some people believe their agendas will magically turn Europe into a powerhouse.
We have a Somali population of around 80k, many of them refugees. You know how bad the terrorism issue is? Only 1 mass stabbing occurred in St. Cloud, and one incident of around 20 men plotting to join ISIS have happened in the past several years. Why do we have little problems with highly religious people?
The answer is rather simple- we carefully admit refugees. You gain nothing from denying immigrants and refugees- after all, us Minnesotans can thank them for increasing our diversity and economy. Managing immigrants/refugees who enter is what makes problems or solutions. I think the extremists who go as far as to say we should kick out all non-natives are really taking it too far (along with those who call for completely open borders). Both of those are unnecessary- simply taking better control around this issue will prevent these things from happening.
Minnesota wasn't a perfect state not too long ago- in the span of a few years though, the improvements have turned it into a top 10 state easily. Eco friendly, politically moderate, lack of police issues, and so many more good things (such as):
1. 1.7 people killed per 100,000, 7th lowest in country
2. One of the fastest growing economies
3. Many religious communities throughout the cities.
4. Support for bikers and those who don't use cars.
5. Decent population density (not too high or low)
6. Lack of issues with immigrants.
7. Good public schools.
I can go on, but i am not trying to turn into an advertiser for trips to Minnesota :P
I am also not trying to bash anyone for having a certain opinion- I gain nothing from insulting someone or acting superior.
I just thought it's worth having people taking a look at Minnesota's revival, especially for those who are conservative. If immigrants in Europe had as little issues as in Minnesota, will they still dislike them?
Edit: I know I said I don't wanna sound like self advertisement, but let me just tell you that Minnesota is simply badass. I will probably never find a state better than it. Simply put, the current condition it is in has simply allowed so many people to finally live happy lives. I am really appreciative of Minnesota's effort to turn the state into something greater. I hope any state struggling bounces back up as well as MN.
