Richmond adopts sister‑city relationship with Sebastia, Palestine, after heated public debate

The Richmond City Council voted 6–1 on Aug. 26 to adopt a resolution establishing a sister‑city relationship with Sebastia (Sebastia), a town in the West Bank, Palestine.

Councilmember Jimenez moved the item and Councilmember Bona seconded. The vote recorded: Councilmember Bona — yes; Councilmember Jimenez — yes; Councilmember Wilson — yes; Councilmember Robinson — yes; Vice Mayor Cepeda — no; Mayor Martinez — yes. The motion passed.

Proponents said the arrangement is a form of people‑to‑people diplomacy that can foster cultural, educational and professional exchange. Councilmember Jimenez said the relationship is a "symbol of peace, unity, and mutual respect" and framed the step as solidarity with Palestinians enduring violence and occupation. Several public commenters supported the resolution and described Sebastia's archaeological and cultural history; speakers also cited existing sister‑city programs in other U.S. cities.

Opponents raised strong objections. Several residents asked whether the sister‑city relationship implicitly endorses political positions or extremist groups. Public commenters included heated criticism linking the measure to broader tensions in Israel and Palestine; some speakers used inflammatory language and accused council leaders of supporting terrorism. Councilmembers and staff noted that sister‑city relationships are municipal, people‑to‑people links and do not create foreign‑policy authority.

Supporters and council members described typical sister‑city activities, such as student exchanges, cultural visits and professional collaborations. Vice Mayor Cepeda recommended a larger or more accessible partner (some council comments suggested Nablus as an alternative) and noted practical concerns with travel and access because Sebastia is in an area under mixed control. The mayor and other supporters said the relationship would deepen community understanding and provide humanitarian and cultural ties.

The council approved the resolution and asked staff to proceed with the customary steps for a sister‑city arrangement. The item passed amid vocal public comment and a split among councilmembers on the political dimensions of the action.