The Senate resolution honors Dr. Yang Dao, a prominent figure in the Hmong community of Minnesota, recognizing his significant contributions and achievements throughout his life. Born in Laos in 1943, Dr. Dao became the first known Hmong individual to earn a doctorate, receiving his Ph.D. in social science from the University of Paris in 1972. His career included roles as the director of human resources for the Royal Lao Government and a member of the National Political Consultative Council. Following the communist takeover in Laos, he and his family fled to Thailand and later migrated to France before settling in the United States in 1983, where he became a Southeast Asia specialist at the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Dao's academic contributions are extensive, including numerous publications on Hmong history, culture, and language, as well as his work as a musician and speaker on Hmong literature and history at various international venues. He has also been involved in community initiatives, such as serving on the board of the first Hmong Public Television. The resolution concludes by honoring Dr. Dao's legacy and directing the Secretary of the Senate to prepare an authenticated copy of the resolution for him.