50th Joint Commemoration
Recognizing the end of the Vietnam War, Secret War in Laos, and Southeast Asian conflict
The 50th Joint Commemoration honored the intertwined histories of the Vietnam War, Secret War in Laos, and Southeast Asian conflict and their lasting impacts on the Cambodian, Lao, Hmong, Vietnamese communities and Minnesota Vietnam Veterans. Rooted in remembrance and inclusion, this statewide effort brought together Minnesotans across generations, cultures, and geographies to deepen public understanding, elevate voices, and create space for shared learning and healing.
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Questions? Contact Angie Lynch |
Joint Commemoration Programming
Through public events, exhibits, educational forums, and storytelling, the Joint Commemoration invites reflection on the experiences of those displaced and returning home, the costs of war, and the enduring contributions of those whose lives were forever changed by conflict. This initiative affirms the vital role of the humanities in fostering dialogue, expanding memory, and honoring the dignity and complexity of every story.
Veteran Recognition Dinner and Pinning Ceremony
On October 24, 2025 the 50th Joint Commemorative programs kicked off with a Veteran Recognition Dinner and Pinning Ceremony. A pinning ceremony holds deep significance, offering long-overdue recognition and gratitude to those who have served. Shoulder to shoulder, these Cambodian, Hmong, Lao, Vietnamese, and U.S. Veterans served together, and we thank them for their sacrifices.
Digital Immersive Experience
On October 25, 2025, the free Immersive Digital Experience at Royalston Square opened to the public. Minnesotans were invited into a powerful journey through the four storytelling themes – the Land We Called Home, War & Upheaval, The Crossing, and New Roots.
Community Cultural Gathering
On November 1 and 2, 2025, Union Depot was alive with the sights, sounds, and aromas of an extraordinary cultural gathering. Exhibits were placed throughout the gallery, somber reminders of those impacted by the experience of these wars. Vendors sold delicious foods and beverages, crafts, and textiles while the main stage showcased performances in five languages, films, and panel conversations.
MHC 50th Joint Advisory Council
To plan this commemoration and leverage the unique skillsets and relationships in the four Southeast Asian Minnesotan communities, and among Minnesota Vietnam Veterans, the Minnesota Humanities Center (MHC) solicited applications to launch the MHC 50th Joint Advisory Council to establish the vision, themes, and content for these commemorative events and educational programming.
The MHC Advisory Council was comprised of fifteen members, three from the Cambodian, Hmong, Lao, and Vietnamese communities and three U.S. Vietnam Veterans from Minnesota. The members met three times – virtually and in person – to shape the programs, foods, entertainment, and exhibits. Most of the members continued as volunteers after their initial commitment to help implement the plans.
Themes reflected in the nearly 50 applications – and later prioritized by the 50th Joint Advisory Council—were: Honoring Sacrifice & Legacy; Preserving & Sharing Stories; Addressing Generational & Cultural Gaps; Recognition of Underrepresented Communities; Healing, Resistance, & Community Strength; and Education & Historical Accuracy.
Advisory Council MembersWe would like to extend our sincerest thanks to these dedicated partners, for their thoughtful care in the creation and implementation of these commemorative events: Bao Lee-Yang, Bruce Richardson, Bryan Thao Worra, Chinda Gregor, Kaysone Syonesa, Larry Johnson, Lynn Nguyen, Mike Hang, Phuoc Tran, Rothana Seng, Samuel Verdeja, Sophia Neou, Sunny Chanthanouvong, and Yang Chee |
Funding and Support for this Program
During the Minnesota Legislative session that ended in 2024, the Minnesota Legislature appropriated Legacy funding to MHC, in collaboration with the Minnesota Historical Society, for a joint commemoration program for the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, Secret War in Laos, Southeast Asian conflict that recognizes and honors the contributions of Cambodian, Hmong, Lao, Vietnamese communities, and other veterans. MHC will prepare the program to leverage the unique histories, experiences, and relationships in the four Southeast Asian Minnesotan communities.
