Meet the Dublin Sister City Board

Our Mission

The Dublin California Sister Cities Association mission is to promote cultural understanding and international friendship by building partnerships between Dublin, California and cities around the world. Through educational exchanges, community events, and cultural programs, we strengthen global connections while celebrating the diverse heritage of our community.

History of the Dublin California Sister Cities Association

The story of the Dublin California Sister Cities Association began in 1986, when former Dublin Mayor Pete Snyder and local resident Bill Foster explored establishing an international partnership.

Given Dublin’s Irish heritage and shared name, they initially hoped to partner with Dublin, Ireland. However, Dublin, Ireland already had several sister city relationships and suggested finding a community of similar size and character.

Around the same time, Father John O’Connell of Bray, Ireland, was seeking an American sister city. During a visit to Dublin, California, he met longtime resident Marie Cronin, who introduced him to Pete Snyder and Bill Foster. This connection led to discussions with Ronan King, then head of the Bray Chamber of Commerce.

Following discussions and planning, the Dublin Sister Cities Association was formally established in 1987. That year, Ronan King and other Bray representatives visited Dublin, California, marking the beginning of the partnership.

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

Continuing the Tradition

What began as an effort to build an international connection has grown into a lasting friendship between Dublin, California, and Bray, Ireland.

Through cultural exchanges, community visits, and shared celebrations, the partnership continues to bring residents of both cities together. Each year, members of the Bray community visit Dublin during St. Patrick’s Day festivities, keeping this special tradition alive.

Over the decades, these exchanges have created lasting friendships and a shared appreciation for each community’s culture and traditions.

The Dublin California Sister Cities Association is proud to continue this legacy and welcomes new members interested in cultural exchange, international friendship, and strengthening the bond between Dublin and Bray (and other international cities).