Did you know that Wisconsin has the third largest Hmong population in the country? It has been a privilege to have Hmong friends and neighbors and learn about their rich, wonderful culture at events in communities throughout the Sixth District, including Oshkosh, Sheboygan, and Manitowoc.
During the Vietnam War, the Hmong people displayed heroism and sacrifice by fighting alongside American troops to combat the evils of communism. The Hmong risked their own lives in the name of the principles and freedoms promoted by the United States. Now, we are incredibly lucky to call the Hmong our neighbors in Wisconsin and communities across the country.
I am excited to share that I led the entire Wisconsin congressional delegation, including 49 bipartisan cosponsors from states like California and Minnesota that also have large Hmong populations, on a bill to honor the Hmong with the Congressional Gold Medal for their help in the Vietnam War. I am glad that both sides of the aisle have come together to recognize the significant role played by Hmong Americans in the Vietnam War and the fight against communism on the world stage.
Through this legislation, the Hmong people will be given the recognition they deserve by awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to those who put their lives on the line in defense of the liberties and values of Western society.
