Vietnam

Vietnam. . , When Governor Ray watched a "60 Minute" broadcast with Ed Bradley about the plight of the Vietnamese fleeing on boats he couldn't bear to see so many people suffering and do nothing about it. He acted to save thousands of lives, especially the boat people. This single act of kindness will last forever and it is why he is a father figure to us., After the Fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975 nearly 130,000 Vietnamese were rescued and relocated throughout the U.S. Thousands of Vietnamese were resettled in many different communities in Iowa, including Dubuque, Decorah, Mason City and Des Moines. Iowa had established the first and only Bureau of Refugee Services at that time. Hundreds of churches and families worked together to sponsor refugees, providing them with homes, furniture, clothing, English language classes and so much more. Sponsors drove people to doctor's appointments, the grocery store, job interviews. Many friendships from that time continue today., According to the 2020 Iowa census, the Vietnamese rank third in Asian American populations. Nationwide, Vietnamese Americans are the fastest growing Asian American group, currently ranking fourth., The Vietnamese in Iowa have contributed significantly to Iowa from economic, social and political viewpoints. Many have become teachers, doctors, lawyers, non-profit leaders, business leaders and more. There are many Vietnamese markets, restaurants and nail shops. The second generation of Vietnamese have enlisted in the Armed Forces to serve the country. We believe in working toward the common good for all people., –Vinh Nguyen