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Saint Paul proclaims 50th anniversary of Hmong resettlement after large public hearing
Summary
The City Council unanimously adopted a resolution recognizing the 50th anniversary of Hmong resettlement in the U.S., with dozens of community leaders, veterans and nonprofit representatives praising the Hmong community’s contributions to Saint Paul.
The St. Paul City Council on Dec. 17 adopted a resolution celebrating the 50th anniversary of Hmong resettlement to the United States and recognizing the many contributions of Hmong residents to the city’s civic, cultural and economic life.
Councilmember Nelsie Yang brought forward the resolution and moved a Version 2 amendment before the public hearing. More than a dozen speakers — including state legislators, veterans who resettled in Minnesota in the 1970s, leaders of Hmong nonprofits and organizers — addressed the council in support.
State Representative (testimony) recounted arriving in Saint Paul from a refugee camp in the 1980s and told the council: "It is a city like Saint Paul that today we have nine Hmong legislators at the state capital." Veterans and first‑family resettlers described early sponsorship and settlement efforts, and nonprofit leaders called for continued investment in education, health and small‑business supports.
Hmong American Partnership president Mindsia Tao said the resolution "is a recognition of resilience, contributions, and belonging" and urged continued investments to ensure safety, economic opportunity and cultural preservation.
Councilmembers praised the community testimony and noted the city’s long partnership with Hmong organizations on education, workforce and immigrant‑serving programs. After public comment the council voted to approve the resolution as amended, 6–0.
The council indicated it would distribute copies of the resolution to community organizers and veterans who could not be accommodated due to printing limits and would publicize upcoming commemorative events tied to the anniversary.
