A powerful call for recognition echoed through the Oregon State Legislature's House Committee on Rules meeting as Alan Luklu and Nhu Haines shared their compelling testimonies advocating for the establishment of Vietnamese American Remembrance Day.

Luklu, a proud Oregonian of Vietnamese descent, passionately urged lawmakers to honor the contributions of Vietnamese immigrants to the state. Reflecting on his family's journey since arriving in America in 1975, he emphasized the resilience and cultural richness that Vietnamese people have brought to Oregon. "Please remember that we are all immigrants... and that we are part of the history of Oregon," he stated, highlighting the importance of acknowledging the past for future generations.

Following Luklu, Haines, a refugee who fled Vietnam as a child, shared his family's story of perseverance and community support in Oregon. He painted a vivid picture of their struggles and successes, from opening one of the first Vietnamese restaurants in the Rogue Valley to becoming integral members of the community. Haines urged the committee to pass HCR 34, which would designate April 30 as Vietnamese American Remembrance Day, celebrating the significant contributions of Vietnamese Americans to Oregon's diverse landscape.

The testimonies underscored a shared message: the importance of remembering and honoring the immigrant experience. As the committee considers HCR 34, the voices of Luklu and Haines resonate as a reminder of the rich tapestry of cultures that shape Oregon's identity.