On June 5^th, 2024 Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth Board Members and staff joined a ceremony held at Dallas City Hall to honor runners Albert Martin and Jennifer Pope. The Dallas City Council and Mayor Eric J. Johnson recognized the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth for its pivotal role in nurturing the Dallas-Sendai International Friendship City relationship. This recognition not only highlights the Society’s dedication but also underscores the deepening ties between Dallas and Sendai, cities separated by vast distances but united over decades with exchanges that deepened their friendship.

The significance of this bond was further symbolized by the commendation of Dallas runners Albert Marban and Jennifer Pope, who participated in the 2024 Sendai International Half Marathon. Their athletic prowess was reflected in Jennifer’s overall finish 19^th overall and 1^st in Sister City runners, and Mr. Marban finished 94^th overall and 2^nd in Sister City runners. On their journey to Sendai, the two not only showcased sporting excellence, but also served as a tangible representation of the strong cultural exchange fostered through this enduring partnership.

The most exciting moment came with the proclamation of June 5th, 2024, as Dallas Sendai Friendship Day by the Dallas City Council. This day stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts and achievements in bridging the geographical and cultural gaps between these two cities.

The Dallas-Sendai relationship is a testament to the power of international collaboration and cultural exchange in fostering understanding and goodwill. It goes beyond mere diplomacy; it embodies the spirit of unity and mutual respect that transcends borders and ties people together through exchanges such as this.

Through initiatives like the Dallas-Sendai International Friendship City relationship and events such as the Sendai International Half Marathon and Dallas-Sendai Youth Ambassador Program barriers are broken down, friendships are forged, and communities are brought closer together. Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth and the City of Sendai works on these efforts not only enrich the lives of those directly involved but also ripple outward, impacting societies on both sides of the Pacific.

As we reflect on Dallas Sendai Friendship Day on June 5th, 2024, JASDFW remembers the journey that led us to our relationship now. The International Friendship City was created after years of trying to forge a Sister City relationship in 1992. This goal was finally completed with the signing of the International Friendship City Agreement in 1997. Dallas and Sendai have been International Friendship Cities for over 25 years, however Dallas and Sendai had grassroots, academic, cultural, economic, and business exchanges since 1991. The Dallas-Sendai Sister City bond is a feather-in-the-cap of Dallas and has been said to be the “gold standard” in Sister City relationships due to the length, breadth, and grassroots connections it has fostered.

JASDFW looks forward to a future filled with continued collaboration, cultural exchange, and enduring friendship. Together, we represent Texas’ Lone Star and the Japanese rising sun to embody the connections of Sun and Star.