I was encouraged to read that Minneapolis, MN and Najaf, Iraq have become sister cities. This partnership includes cultural and educational exchange as well as the effort to build tangible connections between the two cities.
Luke Wilcox writes on the Engage Minnesota blog what I think is so significant about this:
People on both “sides” who have doubts about the other will be exposed to exchange programs and events, in the media if not in person. While media coverage can play a large role in building support FOR war and vilifying the “enemy,” it can also be effective in countering such attitudes. Those in the Twin Cities who are willing and open to listening and participating in exchanges will experience Iraqi culture first-hand, and some will develop long-lasting friendships. Iraqis in the Najaf area will also be exposed to aspects of American culture and community not often seen from an occupying military. . . Coming as peacemakers and visitors, these professors, former city council members, business professionals, NGO directors and members of the Muslim Peacemaker Teams (MPT) are like us, curious, smart and interested in making friends.
