Sister Cities
One friendship between two cities can open a world of opportunity. Anuja SA is proud to steward San Antonio’s sister city relationship with Chennai, India.
What it means to be a Sister City
Sister Cities International (SCI) is a national initiative begun by Dwight D. Eisenhower shortly after World War II, to develop economic, cultural and technical exchanges between US cities, counties, and states with corresponding communities worldwide. The goal of the Sister Cities program is to involve people and organized groups at all levels of society, establishing productive, people-to-people relationships through global community partnerships and volunteer action.
Today, the SCI represents 1,200 US cities, counties and states and their 2,100 partners in 125 countries worldwide. As international cooperation gains importance, city-to-city programs continue to play a significant role in overall global development and cultural understanding.
A Tradition Started by President Eisenhower
The Sister Cities program was founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 on a simple belief: when people from different cultures build real relationships, the world grows closer. What began as a citizen diplomacy initiative now connects thousands of communities worldwide. San Antonio and Chennai, India have carried that spirit together since 2008, and Anuja SA is proud to bring it to life through cultural exchange, community connection, and celebrations like Diwali SA.
San Antonio and Chennai
The City of San Antonio enjoys active sister city relationships with eleven cities worldwide. Anuja SA carries the flag for one of the most vibrant of them: Chennai, the cultural capital of South India.
Through Anuja SA, San Antonians and Chennaiites exchange ideas, art, students, physicians, athletes, and business, building trust and opportunity in both directions.
Arts, education, and cultural exchange
Economic and business development
Sports and youth leadership
Health and research collaboration
Municipal training and community problem-solving
Technology Exchange and Training
Be part of the bridge
Every exchange starts with a person who raised a hand. Join us as a member, volunteer, or partner and help connect San Antonio with the world.
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Anuja SA
A non-profit promoting the Sister-City alliance between San Antonio, Texas and Chennai, India — across art, medicine, education, business, and sport.