CHANDLER, Ariz. – The City of Chandler invites the community to honor Vietnam veterans and celebrate Vietnamese culture at Freedom, Hope, Future, a special event marking five decades since the end of the Vietnam War.
“This event is dedicated to our Vietnam veterans, recognizing their sacrifice and valor,” said Councilmember Matt Orlando. “Their service paved the way for a thriving Vietnamese community in the United States, and we are honored to have so many Vietnamese refugees call Chandler home. This event celebrates their storied history and profound future. Also, it recognizes that America served as a land of opportunity and a new life for the tens of thousands of Vietnamese who escaped communism.”
Freedom, Hope, Future originated as an idea among Vietnamese refugees in Chandler. Recognizing its significance, Councilmember Orlando partnered with city departments and community members to bring this commemoration to life.
“We are deeply grateful to the City of Chandler and Councilmember Orlando for recognizing the significance of this event,” said Chantal Hong Nguyen VanKlompenberg, one of the founding community members. “My family has lived in Chandler for decades, and we are excited to showcase the vibrant Vietnamese community that has flourished here since the Vietnam War. This is our opportunity to thank veterans for the lasting impact they’ve had on generations of Vietnamese refugees.”
The free event takes place on Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Chandler City Hall courtyard. The program includes:
- Vietnam veteran speakers sharing their experiences
- Firsthand stories from Vietnamese refugees about their journeys
- Special recognition for Vietnam veterans, including 50th-anniversary challenge coins
- Dance performance by Basha High School’s Asian Cultural Ethics (A.C.E.) group
- Food samples from local Vietnamese restaurants
- Family-friendly activities provided by the Chandler Public Library and Chandler Recreation
- The Chandler Museum staff will be present to answer questions about the oral history process and schedule appointments for members of the Vietnamese community to record their stories in the future
“Attendees will become part of this important story,” added VanKlompenberg. “They will be immersed in Vietnamese culture while paying tribute to the veterans who helped make our success possible.”
Chandler City Hall is located at 175 S. Arizona Ave. East Chicago Street will be closed between Arizona Avenue and Washington Street during the event. Free parking is available in the City Hall Parking Garage located at 240 S. Washington St.
For more information, visit Freedom, Hope, Future.
Media contact:
Malori Heppler
Marketing and Communications Program Coordinator
480-782-2910