SCAS Sister Cities

In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proposed a people-to-people program under the National League of Cities as one of citizen diplomacy. He envisaged persons and organizations in individual U.S. cities interacting on a one-to-one basis with peers in foreign cities, believing that such personal relationships would lessen future world conflicts. The program grew rapidly and became the nonprofit Sister Cities International in 1967.

Even before, in 1963, Sarasota had already
established the Sister Cities Association of
Sarasota.

Become a Member

Current Sister Cities

A long-term partnership between two communities in different countries, officially recognized after the highest elected or appointed officials from both areas sign off on an agreement.

Friendship Cities

A relationship established between two cities with the intent of fostering cultural understanding and exchanges, serving as an initial step towards a long-term sister city partnership, typically involving more informal commitments.

Emeritus Cities

A former Sister City that, while no longer actively engaged in exchange, is recognized for its past contributions to international friendship and cooperation, honoring its legacy within the Sister Cities program.

Suspended Cities

A previously active Sister City connection that has been paused or placed on hold, often due to political, economic, or social changes, with the possibility of future reactivation depending on circumstances.