Building Bridges
The Sedona Sister Cities Association is proud to reaffirm its commitment to building bridges of understanding through citizen diplomacy. While national governments—including those in Canada and the United States—may see leadership changes and policy differences, people-to-people connections remain a steadfast way to foster goodwill, cultural exchange, and cooperation.
The foundation of this citizen-led movement dates back to 1956, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower introduced his groundbreaking People-to-People program. He believed that lasting peace depends on direct engagement between everyday citizens, saying, “I have long believed, as have many before me, that peaceful relations between nations require mutual respect between individuals.” This vision of “citizen diplomacy” took root through Sister Cities International, which continues to champion these values worldwide.
Today, the Sedona Sister Cities Association carries on this legacy through proactive partnerships and dynamic exchanges designed to promote mutual understanding:
Strengthening Ties with Canmore, Alberta
• Friendship Cities Agreement: Sedona’s Friendship Cities relationship with Canmore, Alberta, Canada, has already yielded inspiring educational collaborations. Initially involving one classroom in a single school, the program has expanded to five Canmore schools, connecting Sedona and Canmore grade school teachers and their students in culturally rich lessons.
• Reciprocal Concerts: Looking ahead, planning is in progress for concerts that will feature both talented youth performers and nationally recognized artists from Sedona and Canmore, further enriching the cultural ties between the two communities.
New Bridges with Jaslo, Poland
• Historical Film Premiere: Sedona recently hosted the premier U.S. showing of Raze to the Ground, a film depicting Jaslo’s destruction during World War II. This poignant event fostered a deeper appreciation for the resilience of Jaslo’s people and their shared history.
• Visual Exchange: Soon, Jaslo residents will view posters in their town square showcasing “The Beauty and History of Sedona,” encouraging mutual awareness and highlighting the captivating landscapes and heritage of Northern Arizona.
• Educational and Scientific Collaboration: The Jaslo Gen Science Center and the Science Vortex of the Verde Valley are preparing to launch cooperative projects, leveraging each institution’s expertise to enhance STEM education and innovation in both communities.
• Invitation to Jaslo Wine Festival: In August 2025, the Jaslo Wine Festival will welcome Sedona-area wineries to feature their varietals, offering an exciting cross-cultural exchange and opening the door to future economic and tourism partnerships.
SSCA Hosts Leaders From Canmore, Canada and Jaslo, Poland
Successful Visit by Sister City Guests from Poland and Canada
Sedona recently had the honor of hosting distinguished guests from our Sister City partners in Poland and Canada. Jeremy Elbourne, Executive Director of artsPlace in Canmore, Alberta; Elwira Musialowicz-Cozzi, Director of JDK Cultural & Arts Center in Jaslo, Poland; and Lukasz Zyra, Chair of the Jaslo Sister City Committee, embarked on a whirlwind four-day tour, immersing themselves in Sedona’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.
Their visit coincided with the renowned Sedona International Film Festival, where they experienced the city’s deep appreciation for the arts. They explored the inspiring exhibits at Goldenstein Galleries and the Sedona Arts Center, engaging with local artists and cultural leaders. A highlight of their stay was a Town Hall presentation at Sedona’s City Council Chambers, where they shared insights about their communities and the exciting potential of Sister City collaborations.
Mayor Scott Jablow, along with many local leaders and Sister Cities supporters, extended a warm Sedona welcome, reinforcing the deepening bonds between our communities. Their visit was not just a cultural exchange—it was a significant step forward in the journey toward full Sister City status for both Canmore and Jaslo.
This inspiring exchange highlighted the power of international friendship and the shared commitment to strengthening cultural and artistic ties. The enthusiasm and connections forged during these four days promise a bright future for Sedona’s growing global partnerships
