Calvin Dooley: “Mr. Speaker I stand with my colleagues in support of H.R. 371, the Hmong Veterans Naturalization Act. By approving this…”

“Mr. Speaker I stand with my colleagues in support of H.R. 371, the Hmong Veterans Naturalization Act. By approving this bill, we will make an important contribution to the efforts of the thousands of Hmong veterans and their families to become United States citizens. For over two decades, Hmong veterans have encountered serious obstacles that have impeded their ability to become U.S. citizens. This bill addresses this by exempting Hmong veterans from English language proficiency and residency requirements. Many Americans are only beginning to appreciate and recognize the invaluable service and bravery of Hmong veterans. Today, we have an opportunity to assure that their service to freedom and to the United States will not be forgotten. Hmong veterans fought in the Vietnam War alongside American forces at great personal peril and loss of life. They performed critical roles in dangerous missions, collected vital intelligence, rescued downed American pilots and defended sensitive American installations at remote locations. Tragically, at the end of the war and as a result of their service and bravery, tens of thousands of Hmong freedom fighters and their families constantly faced the horrible reality of life in prison camps and the threat of genocide. Many Hmong veterans and their families sought refuge in the United States. California's Central Valley, which I represent, has been a primary relocation site for them.”