Megan Lee urges support for bill to preserve Hmong veterans' stories in Minnesota

During a recent meeting of the Minnesota Legislature's Committee on Environment, Climate, and Legacy, significant discussions centered on the preservation of Hmong veterans' stories from the Vietnam War era. The meeting highlighted the urgent need to document the experiences of the last surviving members of the CIA-backed Hmong secret army, who played a crucial role in the U.S. military efforts in Laos from 1961 to 1975.

Megan Lee, a board member of the nonprofit organization SGU Veterans and Families of USA, presented a compelling case for supporting Senate File 1576. This bill aims to collect and preserve the oral histories of Hmong veterans, many of whom have faced challenges in sharing their stories due to language barriers and limited educational backgrounds. Lee emphasized that only a small fraction of these veterans' experiences have been documented, with less than 3% recorded for historical and educational purposes.

The meeting underscored the emotional weight of these narratives, as Lee shared her personal connection to the issue, noting that her father-in-law, a veteran, is now struggling with memory loss. She expressed the importance of preserving these stories not only for the veterans and their families but also for the broader community, as they provide valuable insights into the social, political, and economic impacts of the Hmong community in Minnesota since their arrival in 1975.

Committee members acknowledged the significance of this initiative, with discussions touching on the historical context of the Hmong soldiers' contributions and the need for recognition of their sacrifices. The meeting concluded with a call for support of the bill, emphasizing the urgency of documenting these stories before the remaining veterans pass away.

As the committee moves forward, the preservation of Hmong veterans' legacies stands as a poignant reminder of the diverse narratives that shape Minnesota's history and identity. The anticipated support for Senate File 1576 reflects a commitment to honoring these veterans and ensuring their contributions are not forgotten.