Guanajuato Mayor Samantha Smith and Ashland Mayor Tonya Graham
Released on July 3, 2025
Today, we came together with our friends from Southern Oregon University and our cherished guests from Guanajuato, including Mayor Samantha Smith, to celebrate a milestone in our enduring partnership.
Mayor Smith and Ashland Mayor Tonya Graham officially ratified our Sister City Declaration, reaffirming the strong, vibrant bond between Ashland and Guanajuato, a friendship more than 55 years in the making.
We also proudly unveiled The Hearts of Guanajuato art exhibit, a collaborative installation made possible through the support of Southern Oregon University, the City of Ashland’s Public Arts Advisory Commission and Guanajuato artist Gilberto Salazar Montes.
This celebration is more than symbolic – It’s a testament to the enduring power of people-to-people connection. Bridges are stronger than borders.
Together, we share common values, uphold international peace, embrace diversity and foster mutual respect. We are allies, friends and companions in creating a more connected, compassionate world.
Together, we make the world a better place.
#end
Ashland.news photos by Bob Palermini