2023 House Resolution 109

Whereas, The first Hmong families arrived in the United States as refugees of war in 1976, with thousands settling in the state of Michigan; and

Whereas, During the Vietnam War, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and United States Armed Forces recruited, organized, trained, and assisted Hmong forces to combat the North Vietnamese Army and communist Pathet Lao forces; and

Whereas, Hmong guerrilla soldiers courageously fought alongside Americans during the “Secret War” in Lao; and

Whereas, Thousands of Hmong men, women and children died in Lao. Their deaths were unaccounted for, while their commitment to rescuing downed American pilots and saving U.S. troops never wavered; and

Whereas, When the U.S withdrew from Laos, the Hmong faced harsh retribution from the Communist government for their involvement in the American war effort and many were ultimately forced to flee their native land; and

Whereas, On May 14th, 1975, the last of the Hmong soldiers and their families fled Laos for the Nam Phong refugee camp in Thailand, later resettling in communities throughout the United States, including in Michigan; and

Whereas, Michigan is home to a significant number of Hmong refugees, after providing political asylum and citizenship because of their unique contribution to American interests; and

Whereas, The House of Representatives, recognizes that the state of Michigan is home to a significant number of Hmong Americans and the importance of educating the general public about the historic contributions of our Hmong American residents; and

Whereas, The diversity of the Hmong people adds much to the cultural fabric of our city, state, and country, as they have shared their traditions, food, and practices of faith; and

Whereas, Today, the House of Representatives joins in reflecting on the tremendous heroism and sacrifice of our Hmong American community; and

Whereas, We honor their commitment to leadership, establishment of businesses, and contribution to the economic growth of our state; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare May 14, 2023, as Hmong American Day in the state of Michigan.