A resolution to declare May 14, 2026, as Hmong Special Guerrilla Units Veterans Remembrance Day in the state of Michigan.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joey Andrews and 44 co-sponsors

Designates May 14, 2026 as a remembrance day for Hmong SGU veterans, acknowledging their Vietnam War era contributions and the impact on Michigan’s communities.

adopted

Purpose and intent

This House Resolution (HR 316) in Michigan designates May 14, 2026, as Hmong Special Guerrilla Units Veterans Remembrance Day in the state.

The resolution honors the Hmong veterans who supported the U.S. during the Vietnam War era, particularly those who fought with Special Guerrilla Units (SGUs) in Laos, and recognizes their sacrifices and contributions to American interests.

Key provisions and changes

Proclamation of observance: Declares May 14, 2026, as a statewide remembrance day for Hmong SGU veterans.

Rationale and context: Describes the historical role of Hmong forces recruited, trained, and assisted by the CIA to combat North Vietnamese Army and Pathet Lao forces during the so-called “Secret War” in Laos; acknowledges the fighters’ collaboration with Americans.

Recognition of consequences for Hmong veterans: Notes that many Hmong men, women, and children died or faced persecution after the war, and that the U.S. withdrawal led to political retribution against the Hmong in Laos.

Refugee resettlement context: Highlights that thousands of Hmong refugees settled in Michigan beginning in 1975, and that many obtained asylum, refugee status, and eventual citizenship due to their historical contributions.

Educational and cultural aims: Emphasizes the importance of educating the public about the Hmong community’s historic contributions, sacrifices, leadership, entrepreneurship, and cultural vitality as part of Michigan’s diverse fabric.

Who or what would be affected

State recognition and ceremonies: Public acknowledgment within state government and potential local observances or educational activities aligned with the remembrance day.

Hmong American community: Formal acknowledgement of contributions and sacrifices, with potential impact on public memory, cultural education, and community pride.

General public: Increased awareness of the Hmong SGU history and Michigan’s Hmong refugee population and their impact on the state’s cultural and economic landscape.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction and passage: The bill was introduced and subsequently adopted on May 14, 2026.

Legislative scope: As a resolution, it serves a symbolic recognition rather than creating new statutory obligations, funding, or regulatory changes.

Sponsors: The resolution has a broad list of sponsors and co-sponsors from various representatives, signaling cross-party and community support.

Summary

HR 316 is a Michigan House resolution creating a commemorative day—May 14, 2026—for Hmong Special Guerrilla Units veterans. It acknowledges the Hmong’s historical role with the CIA during the Vietnam War, the hardships faced by Hmong veterans and their families after the war, and the contribution of Hmong refugees to Michigan’s communities. The resolution aims to educate the public about these contributions and recognize the diverse cultural fabric of the state. It is primarily symbolic, with no new legal obligations or funding attached.