May 15, 2019

On Vietnam

Representing Vietnamese-Americans In Washington DC

After serving in the California State Assembly and Senate, it is an honor and a privilege to represent California’s 46thCongressional District in Congress. I came to Washington DC to make your voices heard and to work in a bipartisan manner to bring people closer together. It has been an honor to represent the Vietnamese community and I will continue to advocate on your behalf. 

  • Protecting Human Rights in Vietnam: I supported H.R. 5621, “Vietnam Human Rights Act” in order to advance United States national interests by prioritizing the protection of internationally-recognized human rights and development of the rule of law in relations between the United States and Vietnam, and for other purposes.
  • Releasing Imprisoned US Citizens from Jails in Vietnam: Iadvocated on the behalf of William Nguyen and Michael Nguyen both of whom are American citizens that were arrested in Vietnam. My colleagues and I have sent numerous letters to various actors including Secretary Pompeo, Ambassador Pham Quang Vinh, and President Donald Trump in efforts to release these American citizens. I personally spoke with US Ambassador to Vietnam, Dan Kritenbrink and advocated for justice for both William and Michael.  
  • Digital Human Rights:I sent a letter to Facebook and Google executives to make sure that they are aware of the human rights violations that are occurring in Vietnam. Vietnam has recently passed a law that severely curtails privacy rights of Vietnamese citizens by removing their content. I urged Facebook and Google executives to live up to their stated missions to promote openness and connectivity.
  • Seeking Justice:I sent a letter to DHS about Vietnamese detainee Huy Chi Tran, who was admitted into the United States as a legal permanent resident and was ordered for removal to Vietnam in 2004. He died in an ICE detention facility this past year. I requested that ICE provide us with more clarity on his death and the current conditions immigrants are facing in detention centers. 
  • Honoring the Vietnamese Community: I honored South Vietnamese Veterans by hosting a Vietnam War Vets pinning ceremony. Additionally, I authored a resolution recognizing the accomplishments and the contributions of Vietnamese Americans. 
  • Constituent Help: I have a staffer in my District office who specifically deals with concerns or issues facing the Vietnamese community including help with B1/B2 visa recipients unite with their family members.