Windsor unveils symbol of friendship display in honour of 12 sister cities

The City of Windsor on Friday unveiled a new symbol of friendship display to honour and recognize its 12 twin, or sister, cities.

Located on the south side of the City Hall Square campus, between 350 City Hall Square West and 400 City Hall Square East, the unique installation has been seven years in the making — from concept and design to installation and unveiling.

A 25-foot pole has been installed and holds an individual sign for each of the 12 twin cities. Each sign includes the twin city's name, country, flag, and distance from Windsor. The signs are orientated to point toward each of the twin cities, arranged in order of when the twinning relationship was established.

Mayor Drew Dilkens said the friendships aid in the exchange of ideas and delegations to help build a progressive and prosperous future for all of the connected cities. 

"We see the impact of these relationships through regular reciprocated visits of official delegations, event collaborations, special keepsake exchanges and gathering together for memorable celebrations," Dilkens said.

"These bonds have a positive impact on building Windsor's future, through our local economy, on investments and initiatives, and on supporting a more resilient and diverse community for all."

From 1956 to the present day, the City of Windsor has entered into twin city relationships with the following 12 cities

Dilkens was joined by members of city council, members of the city's International Relations Committee, and a group of community members at the unveiling.

Angelo Marignani, Ward 7 councillor and chair of the International Relations Committee (IRC), said the display exemplifies the diversity of the City of Windsor, showcases its strong connection with its twin cities, and honours the city's spirit of friendship and collaboration.

"As we stand here today and you stop and you look around, you're not hearing bombs, you're not hearing mothers crying about their children, what you're hearing and what you're seeing are people smiling, laughing and enjoying, and that's really what humanity is all about. And this is a symbol of that love that we have for not just Windsor, but the entire world,"  Marignani told CBC News at the ceremony.

"We are a diverse community and this is a big part of it."

The city says the installation is valued at $31,000, with $14,000 contributed by the IRC, and $17,000 contributed from Parks and Facilities.