A Message to Our Members and Friends Regarding the Tragic Events of September 11, 2001 All of us involved with Sister Cities International must speak out against the horrific events of September 11, 2001. As a country and as ordinary citizens, we are now struggling to find appropriate ways to respond. We are all filled with questions and doubts. How do we ensure that such evil forces can never again strike at the heart of our cities? What can we do as ordinary citizens? How can we make a difference? In our hearts we must find ways to break down the barriers that divide us as human beings - barriers that become the breeding grounds for such evil. We must find ways to communicate with those who speak a different language, have a different religion and come from different political traditions. All of us are fortunate that through our involvement in Sister Cities we can find tangible ways to respond to this tragedy. Our collective commitment to the Sister City movement speaks to our personal commitment to foster a more peaceful world. From these tragic days, let us go forward with the mission and values of Sister Cities International at our side. May the work and deeds of all our members continue to inspire hope and peace for all mankind. If you would like to share your thoughts, or the messages you have received from sister city friends around the world, we invite you to e-mail them to us at info@sister-cities.org. During the week of September 17th we will compile your thoughts and post them on the website. SCI President Chuck Stokke SCI Executive Director Tim Honey

Welcome and Introduction to Sister Cities International   by Lynn Olson, Acting Executive Director

Through sister city partnerships the ideals and values of citizen-based diplomacy become a reality. From educational exchanges to economic development projects; from health care assistance to municipal cooperation; from cultural programs to technology innovations; the work of sister cities touches the lives of people and their communities all over the globe.

Local governments and their citizen-based sister city organizations, are the foundation upon which the sister city movement is built. As you explore our site you will see how local governments are engaging internationally, improving the quality of life for their citizens, and improving the global competitiveness of their communities.

If you are a newcomer to SCI, learn how you and your community can get involved with sister cities. In doing so you will discover exciting ways "to think globally and act locally."