The Westminster City Council held a special meeting on May 3, 2024, where significant concerns were raised regarding the proclamation of April 30 as "Jane Fonda Day." This date coincides with the anniversary of the fall of Saigon, a pivotal and painful moment for many Vietnamese Americans and veterans.

During the meeting, Vice Mayor Ho expressed deep disappointment over the decision to honor Fonda on this specific date, describing it as "insensitive" to the Vietnamese community. He emphasized the lasting impact that elected officials have on younger generations and recalled his own experiences growing up in Los Angeles, where he was influenced by prominent figures like Kenneth Hahn, a former LA County Supervisor.

Council members and local Vietnamese leaders voiced their outrage, highlighting that the proclamation disregards the historical significance of the date for the Vietnamese diaspora, particularly in Southern California, which hosts the largest Vietnamese community outside Vietnam. They argued that honoring Fonda, who has been a controversial figure due to her anti-war activism during the Vietnam War, on such a significant day is dismissive of the experiences and losses endured by Vietnamese people and veterans.

The council discussed the need for a swift response to the resolution, with members urging the LA County Board of Supervisors to reconsider the proclamation. The meeting underscored the importance of sensitivity and awareness in commemorating historical events, particularly those that resonate deeply within specific communities. The council plans to formally denounce the resolution and seek alternative ways to honor individuals without causing further division or hurt.