The resolution commemorates the 50th anniversary of the resettlement of Vietnamese, Lao, Cambodian, and Hmong refugees in Washington State, which began in the spring of 1975 following the withdrawal of American troops from Vietnam. It highlights the decisive actions taken by Governor Daniel Evans and President Gerald Ford, including the establishment of a task force for refugee resettlement and the initiation of Operation Babylift, which brought Vietnamese orphans to the U.S. The resolution acknowledges the significant support from the Washington community, which provided resources and volunteer efforts to assist the integration of over 4,000 Southeast Asian refugees by the end of 1975.
Furthermore, the resolution emphasizes Washington's ongoing commitment to humanitarian efforts and the importance of compassion and inclusion for refugees. It recognizes the historical context of the refugee crisis, including the loss of lives due to political persecution and economic sanctions, and the continued waves of resettlement that enriched the state's cultural and economic landscape. The resolution calls for Washington State to uphold its values of support for those seeking safety and a better future in America.