"Minnesota Nice" has brought us this far, and now it's time to elevate our reputation to "Minnesota Kind," and make Minnesota known as the kindest state in the country.  Being nice means that you're pleasant, agreeable, and enjoyable to be around. In short: when you're nice to someone, you're successfully acting in a way that makes them like you, which is great! Being kind, though, is more about being moral or good. Nice people want to be liked and to keep the peace; kind people are motivated by values and virtues. Both are great, but they are different!  For decades, Minnesotans have proudly embraced the label of 'nice,' a term ingrained in our culture long before its mention in the Star Tribune in 1986. However, we recognize the need to evolve and create positive change. Understanding the historical connotations of 'nice,' we are committed to elevating our identity. It's time to move beyond 'nice' and embrace 'Minnesota Kind' as a reflection of our genuine warmth and compassion." 

 The word "nice" has an interesting etymology. It traces back to the Latin word "nescius," which means "ignorant" or "unaware." Over time, in Middle English, it evolved to mean "FOOLISH." Being "nice" generally means being pleasant, agreeable, and considerate. Being "nice" is about treating others well and as a result, being well-liked. 

Kind comes from an Old English word, cynn, meaning FAMILY or kin. Over time, its meaning evolved to represent the qualities of generosity, benevolence, and compassion. Being "kind" goes beyond being nice and involves a deeper sense of compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others. Kindness involves a genuine concern for the well-being of others and often requires action, not just words. It is about making a positive impact in someone's life through thoughtful and intentional acts. Being kind means acting in another person's best interest, even when it upsets them. 

 At the core of our vision lies the aspiration for Minnesota to shine as the embodiment of kindness across the nation. Learning about the origins of "kind" and "nice" sparked a deep sense of purpose within us, propelling us to champion a meaningful shift. 

  Together, we can shift away from being passive-aggressive, and move towards a shared belief in genuine kindness, where everyone in our state is treated like family. 

 
In our vision of the future, Minnesota becomes a destination not just for its 10,000 lakes and the Mall of America, but for the unparalleled warmth of its hospitality. Visitors will come to our state seeking family connections, sporting events, and encounters with nature's wonders. Yet, what truly sets Minnesota apart is the genuine embrace they receive, leaving them feeling such a profound sense of belonging that they will desire to make Minnesota their permanent home and join our family.