Recognizing the historical significance and the heroic struggles and sacrifices of the Vietnamese people who fled their war-torn country by boat and other means in search of freedom and democracy.
Impact
The resolution not only serves as a formal recognition of the Vietnamese refugee experience but also acknowledges the contributions of the Vietnamese American community to the fabric of American society. With an estimated 1.7 million Vietnamese Americans living in the U.S., they form the fourth largest Asian-American group, significantly impacting various fields, including business, education, and public service. The House of Representatives aims to honor the history and resilience of these individuals and their descendants, underscoring their role in shaping American culture.
Summary
House Resolution 565 recognizes the significant historical struggles and sacrifices of Vietnamese individuals who fled their war-torn country by boat and other means in search of freedom and democracy, specifically following the Fall of Saigon in 1975. This resolution emphasizes the challenges faced by these refugees, including starvation, dehydration, and the threat of violence during their perilous journeys. It highlights that approximately 1.2 million Vietnamese refugees fled between 1975 and 1992, with about 900,000 successfully reaching safety, while tragically around 300,000 lost their lives at sea.
Contention
While the resolution is largely commemorative, it does not appear to carry legislative measures that could lead to direct policy changes. Nonetheless, it highlights ongoing discussions regarding how the U.S. acknowledges and supports refugee communities. By formally recognizing the contributions of Vietnamese Americans, the resolution invites reflection on America's broader immigration policies and the importance of supporting those who seek refuge from oppression.
Responding to growing threats to freedom of the press and expression around the world, reaffirming the centrality of a free and independent press to the health of democracy, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance on World Press Freedom Day.
Expressing support for the recognition of the month of September 2024 as "Boat People Awareness Month" to honor the hundreds of thousands of boat people who fled Vietnam's oppressive Communist regime during the decades following the Vietnam war.
Recognizing the difficult challenges Black veterans faced when returning home after serving in the Armed Forces, their heroic military sacrifices, and their patriotism in fighting for equal rights and for the dignity of a people and a Nation.