Marion’s Sister City program was established in March, 2010 with the signing of the first Sister City agreement between Mayor Robert L. Butler of Marion and Mayor Junichi Yokoe of Kanie Town, Japan. The program brings understanding of our cultures, enhances the esteem our citizens have for one another, and encourages cooperation.

 

Representatives from Kanie, including city officials and students visited Marion in 2010, 2012 and 2013. The students stayed with host families and attended Marion Junior High during their stay. 

 

Back in 2010, Marion sent adult representatives to Kanie but this will be the first opportunity our students have to visit Japan.  Six Marion High school students were chosen to be ambassadors to Kanie through an application and essay writing process. These six students along with four adults representing the City of Marion, Marion Chamber of Commerce and the community, will leave July 11 for Kanie Japan. They will spend the week with our Kanie Town hosts and return on July 18. 

Students will experience the Japanese way of life, staying in homes with host families and attending school. They will also enjoy fun activities planned by their hosts. This is a wonderful opportunity for our children to gain cultural awareness and to represent our community. 

 

To follow their travels to Kanie Town, their activities while there and their journey home, follow them on Facebook!