On April 24, 2025, the Austin City Council held a significant meeting to honor the Vietnamese American community, marking 50 years since the fall of Saigon. Council Member Chito Vela led the ceremony, emphasizing the resilience and contributions of Vietnamese Americans to Austin and Texas. This proclamation serves as a tribute to the sacrifices made by Vietnamese service members and civilians during the Vietnam War and acknowledges the ongoing challenges faced by the community.

During the meeting, Vela expressed gratitude to community leaders, including Casey Lung and Chloe Chow Tran, for their efforts in organizing the event and ensuring the stories of Vietnamese Americans are recognized. The proclamation highlighted the historical context of the Vietnamese American experience, noting that over one million refugees fled Vietnam, many risking their lives for a chance at a new beginning in the United States.

The proclamation also detailed the economic impact of the Vietnamese American community, which generated approximately $8.8 billion in labor income and $14.8 billion in added value in 2022. The community's contributions extend beyond economics, as they have established over ten organizations in Central Texas that serve more than 70,000 Vietnamese Americans, advocating for education, health equity, and cultural preservation.

In a unique gesture, the proclamation was read in both English and Vietnamese, symbolizing the city's commitment to inclusivity and recognition of cultural diversity. The event was not only a moment of reflection but also a celebration of the ongoing contributions of the Vietnamese American community to the fabric of Austin.

As the city prepares for the official observance of April 30, 2025, as "50 Years of Freedom, Perseverance, and Contributions," the council's actions underscore a broader commitment to honoring the past while fostering a more inclusive future for all residents. The meeting concluded with a call for continued support of the arts and cultural spaces that enrich the community, ensuring that the legacy of Vietnamese Americans remains a vital part of Austin's identity.