Norman leadership will host a delegation from Sister City Clermont-Ferrand, France, from March 18 through March 23, 2022. The visit will showcase Norman living and Oklahoma culture, complete with local stays, eateries, activities and more.
The visit is made possible through “Passports,” Norman’s International and Sister Cities Organization, which serves to enrich government officials and community members in participating cities. The City of Norman has coordinated the upcoming visit in collaboration with Visit Norman, Norman Arts Council, and the Oklahoma Municipal League.
“Norman citizens are global citizens and our long-standing Sister City friendship with Clermont-Ferrand has created opportunities to embrace that role,” said Mayor Breea Clark. “We are looking forward to hosting our international friends as they experience our rich culture in Norman and several treasures in our region.”
Clermont-Ferrand, France, is one of four Sister Cities of the City of Norman. Also a university city, Clermont-Ferrand is home to more than 141,000 people and regarded as one of the oldest city’s in all of France. During their time in Oklahoma, itinerary adventures for the French delegation include a campus tour at the University of Oklahoma, legislative reception, and trip to Honey Springs Battlefield.
In addition to regular Sister Cities visits, the City of Norman and Clermont-Ferrand have also coordinated student/teacher exchanges and artist residencies between both communities to foster unique and inspiring opportunities.
"Life and study abroad for a semester or year continues to be an academic and personal transformative experience,” said Dr. Millie Audas, Director Emeritus of Education Abroad & International Student Services of the David L. Boren College of International Studies at the University of Oklahoma. “It has empowered French and Oklahoma/US participants with human skills such as celebration of differences, ability to adjust and accept diverse values and points of view. It also prepares them to compete in the world marketplace."
A Reaffirmation of Sister Cities Agreement will be signed by both mayors during the March 22 Norman City Council meeting.
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