About Sister Cities International
The Sister Cities International (SCI) program traces its roots to 1956 when President Dwight D. Eisenhower proposed a people-to-people citizen diplomacy initiative. Originally part of the National League of Cities, Sister Cities International became an independent nonprofit organization in 1967 as the program grew in popularity across the United States. Sister city programs provide an opportunity for communities around the world to build relationships, share cultures, and develop friendships through cultural exchange and community engagement.

You can learn more by visiting the Sister Cities International website.

History of the Dublin California Sister Cities Association
In 1986, former Dublin Mayor Pete Snyder and local resident Bill Foster began exploring the idea of establishing a sister city relationship that would connect Dublin, California with a community abroad. Because of Dublin’s Irish roots and shared name, they initially hoped Dublin, California could partner with Dublin, Ireland. However, Dublin, Ireland already had several sister city relationships and suggested finding a community of similar size and character.

At the same time, Father John O’Connell of Bray, Ireland was also seeking a sister city for Bray. During a visit to Dublin, California, he connected with longtime resident Marie Cronin, who introduced him to Pete Snyder and Bill Foster. Through this connection, discussions began with Ronan King, who was then head of the Bray Chamber of Commerce.

After correspondence and planning between the communities, the Dublin Sister Cities Association was formally established in 1987. Ronan King and other representatives from Bray visited Dublin, California for an official visit, marking the beginning of the partnership between the two communities.

In 1988, Dublin representatives made their first visit to Bray. A highlight of that visit was the Dublin High School band leading the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Ireland during Dublin’s 1,000-year anniversary celebration as a city.

Continuing the Tradition
Since those early exchanges, the partnership between Dublin, California and Bray, Ireland has continued to grow through visits, celebrations, and community participation. Each year, members of Bray visit Dublin during St. Patrick’s Day festivities, strengthening the relationship between the two communities.

Over the years, these exchanges have created many lasting friendships and strong personal connections between residents of both cities. The Dublin California Sister Cities Association remains committed to continuing this tradition and welcomes new members who would like to help strengthen the bond between Dublin and Bray.