Resolution marking 50 years of Southeast Asian diaspora in U.S. pushed by Hirono

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, a Hawai‘i Democrat, and U.S. Rep. Derek Tran, a Democrat from California, are leading a push to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Southeast Asia refugee resettlement in the United States.

The lawmakers introduced a bicameral resolution recognizing the immense contributions of these communities to the nation’s fabric. It also advocates for policies that would provide Southeast Asian Americans and refugee communities with greater opportunities to thrive.

“Since 1975, over 1 million Southeast Asian refugees have resettled in the U.S., and for 50 years now these communities have contributed greatly to our country’s economy, military and culture,” said Hirono in a release about the resolution. “From serving in our armed forces to enriching our economy, this resolution honors the sacrifices many of these refugees have made and reaffirms our commitment to ensuring these communities have access to education, health care and other resources they need to thrive.”

More than a million Southeast Asians fled their homes in the aftermath of the Vietnam War, Secret Wars in Laos and the Khmer Rouge genocide in Cambodia to escape war, genocide, ethnic and political persecution and famine.

This year marks 50 years since the first Southeast Asian refugee arrived in the United States.

More than 3 million Southeast Asian American refugees and their families now reside in the United States and have made innumerable contributions to the military, economy and social culture.

The resolution acknowledges the atrocities and widespread violence that forced millions to flee Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam half a century ago, as well as recognizes the profound impact these communities have had on American culture and society since.

It also honors the sacrifices made by Southeast Asian Americans to defend the nation, and pledges support for comprehensive policies to expand educational, economic and political opportunities for Southeast Asian citizens, immigrants and refugees.

In addition to Hirono and Tran, the resolution is co-sponsored by U.S. Sens. Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, Andy Kim of New Jersey, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Ed Markey of Massachusetts, Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff of California, Jacky Rosen Nevada, Brian Schatz of Hawai‘i, Chris Van Hollen of Maryland and Ron Wyden or Oregon, as well as U.S. Reps. Grace Meng and Dan Goldman of New York; Nanette Barragan, Judy Chu and Juan Vargas of California; and Hank Johnson of Georgia.

All of the resolution’s sponsors are Democrats.

The full text of the proposed legislation is available online.