The Wisconsin Legislature has introduced Senate Joint Resolution 41 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of significant historical events, including the conclusion of the Vietnam War and the Secret War in Laos, as well as the Fall of Phnom Penh in Cambodia. These events, which occurred in 1975, had a profound impact on millions in Southeast Asia, leading many individuals from Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam to seek refuge in the United States. The resolution highlights the rich cultural contributions and resilience of these communities, particularly noting that Wisconsin is home to the third-largest Hmong population in the country, with thriving communities in various cities.
The resolution aims to honor the strength and cultural heritage of Southeast Asian American communities in Wisconsin, recognizing their significant role in enhancing the state's social, cultural, and economic landscape. By commemorating these historical milestones, the Wisconsin Legislature seeks to acknowledge the challenges faced by these communities and celebrate their enduring contributions to the state.