Director of DevelopmentBusiness and Community Outreach
Lyllian Nguyen
Director of Strategic Partnerships
Quynh Nguyen
Director of Public Relations
Michael Silvers
Graphics and Layout Designer
Blessy Mae R. Pacot
Column Editor
Austin Nguyen
Contributors
• Dr. Emily Letran
• Lyllian Nguyen
• Amy Nitao
• Jenny Ai Trinh Thai
• Nancy Bui
Photos
• Lyllian Nguyen
• Jenny Ai Trinh Thai
• Round 21
• Anthony Jordan Photography
• Diligam_te
• Luan Vu
• Ngoc Le
• Neil Ta
A NOTE
From the Executive Director
Los Angeles TribuneViet Nam Journal
Dr. Emily Letran
Welcome to the Fourth Issue of Los Angeles Tribune – Viet Nam Journal
This issue, published in April 2025, marks a significant milestone—the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, commemorating the end of the Viet Nam War.
On April 30, 1975, the world believed the war had concluded, and that peace had finally arrived. But for the Vietnamese people, the cessation of hostilities marked the beginning of a new chapter—one defined by turmoil, struggle, and survival.
In the years that followed, Vietnam was thrust into further conflict, engaging in wars with both Cambodia to the East and China to the North. A historic exodus began, as hundreds of thousands of individuals risked everything to escape. Surviving perilous seas, they came to foreign lands, facing an uncertain future but carrying with them the unbreakable spirit of resilience.
This issue shares the stories of Vietnamese Americans—those who fled the homeland and built new lives in a land far from our own. These individuals have excelled across diverse fields, from literature and the arts to cinema and business, contributing to the American life and pursuing the American dream. With the success in our adopted countries, we have never forgotten our roots and continued to honor our Vietnamese heritage.
As we reflect on the journey of these past fifty years, we are filled with profound gratitude for the countless sacrifices made. We honor those who gave their lives during the war, those who perished at sea in their quest for freedom, and those who endured untold hardships to establish what we now know as Little Saigon in Southern California.
In this moment of reflection, we are reminded of the priceless gift we now enjoy: the opportunity to live in peace, to cherish freedom, and to build lives without the horrors of war.
To all the dreamers and doers of the world: the future is ours to shape. Live boldly up to your potential, and let us never lose sight of the past. We stand on the shoulders of giants. Together, let us create a legacy of peace, prosperity, and understanding, where the shadows of war are replaced by the light of a brighter tomorrow.
All rights reserved 2025. The views and opinions stated in this publication are those of the writers and do not represent those of the LA Tribune - Viet Nam Journal. Replication of this content without prior permission from the authors is probibited.
Rooted in MotheR spiRit And bRidged by e xpRession A Thread Through Generations: Healing Through Art, Memory, and Connection
By Lyllian Nguyen
In October 2023, I attended the conference, Vietnamese Americans Contending with War and Postwar Legacies at the University of Oregon. Organized by the US-Vietnam Research Center, it was the first event I’ve attended where I truly felt the full weight of 50 years and the possibility of what comes next.
This gathering brought together scholars, activists, students, and community members from across the country to examine the impact of war, displacement, and generational transition. What stood out was not just what was said, but how it felt: vulnerable, thoughtful, and deeply necessary.
As Professor Tuong Vu, Director of the US-Vietnam Research Center and organizer of the conference, later reflected in an email: “There was so much to talk about and to absorb both during the roundtables or coffee breaks, but never enough time.” His words echoed the shared desire for deeper connection, longer conversations, and meaningful exchanges that transcended the sessions themselves.
As a second-generation Vietnamese American born in 1977, I didn’t live through the war. But I carry its legacy in the pauses between my mother’s stories and in the silences of what went unsaid. The conference created a space for those stories to rise, alongside others like mine, to be seen, heard, and honored.
Our collective journey of healing continues through expression. In my hometown, Portland, OR a powerful three-part cultural series began. The first event honoring the past, an exhibit titled “And the Story Begins,” opened at the Oswego Heritage House Museum, showcasing artwork by Le Quang Vinh.
Through his deeply personal lens as a Vietnamese refugee, Le’s paintings reflect the emotional transition from homeland to unfamiliar terrain. The exhibit invites viewers to witness the vulnerability and strength embedded in the immigrant experience. His masterpieces were created from modest means, where his canvas flat on a folding table within a dimly lit garage. Then he’d empty his heart and soul with each brush stroke into the late hours of the night.
Immersing oneself in the works of artists offers understanding, even as the present-day challenges that Vietnamese Americans face are as complex as they are diverse. Generational disconnects, cultural identity shifts, political disagreement, and the risk of cultural erasure are all part of the conversation. These tensions test the strength of our community bonds and demand thoughtful, inclusive dialogue that makes space for multiple truths.
Van Hoa Ba Mien (Culture of Three Regions) - 1986 - Oil on Canvas
My mom often taught me to be diplomatic which meant overcoming these inevitable differences. We heal by making room to hear every voice. We listen and we don’t judge, remembering that we are all part of the same story, even if we arrived at different chapters.
On April 30, 2025, the Oregon Historical Society will host Vietnamese Americans: 50 Years in Oregon. The exhibit will highlight five decades of contributions in fields such as education, business, healthcare, and public service. It marks an important moment to celebrate how far the community has come while acknowledging the barriers many have had to overcome. Paul (Huy) Vu, who founded EDA Frames and revolutionized bespoke eyewear, and State Representative Thuy Tran will be featured. They will share their life experiences and the grit it took to achieve their success. At the heart of this exhibit is a message:
We are here. We belong. Our
stories matter.
At the same time, across the country in Washington, D.C., Vagabond presents 50 Years of HOPE and HA-HAs, a Vietnamese American art exhibition that celebrates the expansiveness of the diaspora, rooted in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia). The mainstream perception of Vietnamese identity has remained anchored in war and trauma, yet the community is dynamic and ever-evolving.
One of the first exhibitions in the nation to center counter-narratives from the 1.5- and second-generations of Vietnamese Americans, HOPE & HA-HAs uplifts the multicultural intersectionality of the diaspora. Themes of resilience emerge through joy, memorial, heritage, catharsis, solidarity, representation, and community. The exhibition features visual art, poetry, video art, zines, and music by Anthony Trung Quang Le, Antonius-Tín Bui, Theresa-Xuan Bui, Chanlee Luu, Hien Kat Nguyen, and many others.
I hope this powerful exhibit becomes a traveling show— so that communities like Portland can also experience its joy, depth, and cultural impact.
By now, waves of my generation and future generations pride in seeking understanding cultural continuity. At the Jeffrey Allen Gallery in Tigard, housing the Mother Spirit Temple, I had the honor of witnessing Van Le participate in a traditional ceremony Đền Mẫu Vân Hương Vòng Tứ in 2024, during I felt a sincere maternal connection through the rituals of song and dance.
This “intangible cultural heritage practice” is recognized by UNESCO World Heritage as it holds deep cultural significance. Bringing its spirit to Portland reflects a meaningful act of preservation and intergenerational transmission.
Van Le’s uncle, Allen Luong, has committed himself to continuing this legacy. The gallery represents his dedication to cultural preservation. Allen collaborates with preservation societies in Vietnam and works to educate Vietnamese youth about their heritage. “When you come from a war-torn country, it’s hard to talk about anything other than the most immediate fifty years of history,” he said.
“But we come from a country that has existed for thousands of years.”
Lyllian and son Kalel Tran at Oregon Rises Above Hate event
The weight of 50 years is lightened as I listen, see, and hear every story shared. I await for The Enduring Spirit of Vietnam event at PLACE in Portland. Award-winning author Dr. Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai will read from her new poetry collection The Color of Peace and celebrated photographer Peter Steinhauer will present selections from his long-term project Spires – Cathedrals of Vietnam’s Red River Delta.
His photographs resonated with me personally as I too turned to my family’s history seeking out my parent’s childhood churches during my visit to Vietnam.
I imagined the countless hours they spent there with their friends, and absorbed in joy they felt walking the same path to church from home. He truly captures the elegance and fading history of French-Vietnamese architecture. The exhibit urges us to preserve both tangible and intangible legacies before they are lost. Together, they will share how creative expression builds empathy and bridges understanding between cultures and generations.
Each of these moments though many more, from academic reflection to visual storytelling, poetry, and ritual represents a thread in the larger fabric of our shared identity. Healing from the legacies of war requires remembering, but it also requires reimagining. Art allows us to do both.
Fifty years after the Fall of Saigon, we are still discovering what it means to belong, to heal, and to light the torch of others to light a brighter path. In supporting engaging in events like these we discover pieces of ourselves and create collectively.
Let us continue weaving this thread together— honoring those who came before us while lifting the voices of those who will follow.
Allen Luong and Van Le with the Oregon Vietnamese American Cultural Center (OVACC) event at 40 lbs coffee, 2024
Lyllian Nguyen inside the intricate cathedral in Nam Dinh Province #42 of the Spires collection
The Innova T or o n S T age
Nguyen Ngoc Ngan is a beloved figure within the global Vietnamese community.
Born in Son Tay, Vietnam, his family relocated to the South following the country’s division in 1954. After earning his university degree, he became a teacher before being drafted into the army like many young men during the wartime era. In the aftermath of the fall of Saigon in 1975, he was imprisoned in a re-education camp. Three years later, in 1978, he made a daring escape by boat to Malaysia—a journey during which he tragically lost his wife and child.
While grappling with unimaginable personal loss, Mr. Ngan began writing his first novel in the refugee camp. This marked the beginning of a prolific literary career. His body of work—comprising numerous novels and short stories—stands out for its vivid portrayals of life, often delivered with a nuanced touch of irony and social commentary.
Later, he began producing audiobooks, which deepened his connection with audiences through the distinctive warmth and emotion of his voice.
In 1992, Mr. Ngan was invited to co-host the iconic musical variety show Paris By Night produced by Thuy Nga Paris—a collaboration that spanned three decades. His role extended far beyond that of a traditional Master of Ceremonies. With eloquence and charm, he shared historical insights, told captivating stories, delivered humor with impeccable timing, and even sang. He also wrote scripts for theatrical performances featured in the show, showcasing some of the most celebrated talents in the Vietnamese community.
In this special edition, we are proud to honor Nguyen Ngoc Ngan as The Innovator On Stage, and extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for all the joy and fulfillment the future may bring.
THE JOURNEY TO OSCAR
Ke Huy Quan was born in Saigon, Vietnam, into a family of eight siblings. In 1978, three years after the end of the Vietnam War, Quan and his family fled the country as part of the exodus of “boat people”. His father, along with five of his children, journeyed to Hong Kong, while Quan’s mother and three siblings sought refuge in Malaysia. In 1979, the family came to the United States and reunited.
At the age of 13, Quan embarked on an acting career, securing his breakout role as Short Round, the 12-year-old sidekick to Harrison Ford’s Indiana Jones, in Steven Spielberg’s Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984). His performance earned him a nomination for the Saturn Award for Best Performance by a Younger Actor. Following this success, Quan appeared in a number of films and television series across the United States, Japan, and Taiwan, solidifying his presence in the international entertainment landscape.
In January 2020, Quan returned to acting, joining the cast of Everything Everywhere All at Once—a film that
would go on to redefine cinematic success. Released in March 2022, the film became the most-awarded film in history, with Quan’s remarkable performance earning him widespread acclaim.
He won the Golden Globe Award, the Screen Actors Guild Award, and the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. His victory at the Screen Actors Guild Awards marked a historic milestone, as Quan became the first Asian man to win an individual category at the ceremony and the first Vietnamese-American actor to be nominated for a performance in this category. He is one of only two actors of Asian descent to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and the first Vietnamese-born actor to achieve such an honor.
Winning the Academy Award is considered the pinnacle of an actor’s career, and Quan’s triumph stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent. His journey, marked by resilience, ambition, and artistry, continues to inspire and uplift the global entertainment community.
our
David Tran’s journey from a war-torn Vietnam to becoming a global culinary icon is a tale not just of resilience but of visionary entrepreneurship. Born in Viet Nam, Tran’s early exposure to spice and the culinary arts began where he worked as a cook for the South Vietnamese Army during the 1970s. After that, he produced hot sauces, relying on chili peppers sourced from his older brother’s farm near Saigon.
However, everything changed dramatically in 1975 when the Vietnam War ended with the fall of Saigon. The Communist government began cracking down on the Vietnamese ethnic Chinese community as tensions along the northern border with China were rising. The refugee crisis that followed displaced millions of people. In 1978, Tran and 3,000 fellow refugees boarded a freighter, the Huey Fong, heading for a refugee camp in Hong Kong, where they were processed and then granted asylum in the United States. On January 19, 1979, Tran arrived in Boston, and in January 1980, he relocated to California, a place that would forever change the trajectory of his life.
In California, living within his Vietnamese immigrant community, Tran once again began crafting his beloved chili sauces. By February of the same year, he began selling his product to local markets. He named his company Huy Fong, after the very ship that had carried him to freedom.
Tran initially envisioned his hot sauce as a product for the Vietnamese-American community, knowing that immigrants would want a familiar taste to accompany their pho, banh mi, and other staple dishes. However, he quickly recognized the growing demand for spicy, bold flavors among the broader American population. “I knew, after the Vietnamese resettled here, that they would want their hot sauce for their pho… But I wanted something that I could sell to more than just the Vietnamese.”
What followed was the evolution of Sriracha into a culinary sensation. By introducing a product that was uniquely spicy, yet accessible to non-Asian consumers, Tran tapped into the growing American interest in bold flavors. Tran’s belief that his sauce could transcend cultural boundaries was realized as Sriracha found its place not only on pho but on a wide variety of dishes— soups, sauces, pastas, pizzas, hot dogs, hamburgers, and even in unconventional applications like cocktails. The versatility of the sauce quickly turned it into a staple in American households and restaurants alike.
By 2023, the impact of Huy Fong and its signature Sriracha sauce had reached unimaginable heights. With a market valuation exceeding $1 billion, it became the third-largest hot sauce brand in the United States, trailing only Tabasco and Frank’s RedHot. Despite the monumental success, David Tran’s company remained privately held, with him famously maintaining a commitment to simplicity, quality, and authenticity— never overextending his product line or compromising on the integrity of the recipe. Forbes attributed the success not just to the quality of the sauce, but also to Tran’s unique vision and understanding of how to bridge cultures through food.
In an age where we are overwhelmed by consumer trends, Sriracha is a testament to how a single product, born out of necessity, can become a cultural force. The success story of David Tran is a narrative that reflects the power of food to connect people across different backgrounds, and the tenacity of one individual who, with a small bottle of sauce, brought a flavor of Viet Nam to the global stage.
“Charlie” Quy Ton’s journey to success is a remarkable tale of innovation and perseverance. Born in Viet Nam, Ton embarked on a dangerous journey to escape and arrived in the Philippines on a modest wooden boat, accompanied by 67 others seeking a better future. After spending nine months in the Philippines, Ton was granted permission to immigrate to the United States. Ton graduated from Louisiana State University (LSU) with a degree in chemical engineering, setting the stage for his future as an entrepreneur.
Initially, Ton’s business career began in an unexpected niche. His wife owned a nail salon, and Ton identified an underserved market: quality nail care products at affordable prices. He founded Alfalfa Nails Supply, a company named after the alfalfa flowers he had tended to as a work- study student at LSU. The name reflected his commitment to cultivating a thriving business, just as bees tend to their flowers. What started as a small operation supplying local nail salons quickly grew into a nationwide enterprise, serving over 10,000 salon owners across the United States.
Not content with only manufacturing and selling products, Ton’s entrepreneurial mindset led him to expand into the salon industry itself. In 1997, while shopping at a local Wal-Mart, he noticed a gap in the market—while the retailer offered hair salons, it lacked nail salons. Recognizing an opportunity, he partnered with Bo Huynh to develop a comprehensive system for establishing nail salons within Wal-Mart locations. This system encompassed site acquisition, design, build-outs, furnishings, and franchise management. Ton designed the administrative, growth, and quality control systems and presented his concept to Wal-Mart executives.
Initially met with skepticism, Wal-Mart declined Ton’s proposal. Ton persisted and followed up with decision-makers until they agreed to allow him to open a test salon in Shreveport, Louisiana, in October 1997. The salon’s overwhelming success soon convinced Wal-Mart to expand the concept. Over the next decade, Ton sold more than 900 Regal Nails franchises, with locations now spanning across major retailers such as Wal-Mart Supercenters, Meijer, and HEB Stores.
At the height of its growth, Regal Nails was expanding at a rate of 100 new franchises per year. Ton’s innovative approach to business and his commitment to excellence have earned him numerous accolades, including “Top Forty Under Forty” recognition from the Greater Baton Rouge Business Report, and “Young Business Person of the Year” from the Baton Rouge Business Awards & Hall of Fame.
Through his hard work and vision, Quy “Charlie” Ton represents the American Dream. What began as an idea has blossomed into a flourishing business empire, demonstrating his ability to not only build a successful venture but to grow it into an industry leader.
1975 - 2025 A 50-Year Milestone Of Resilience, Faith, and Appreciation
Dr. Emily Letran
April 29 th , 1975
The electricity was out in our neighborhood. My parents walked around the house with candles and set up the space under the staircase as a “bomb shelter.” I remember hearing my Dad telling my Mom, “It cannot be that bad. They are people too.”
We went up to the balcony on the 4 th floor to look. The sky was red. The smell of smoke was in the air. From afar, we could hear the sound of artillery popping like firecrackers. I don’t remember how we kids all went to bed that night, but I was pretty sure my parents did not sleep.
April 30 th , 1975
The streets in front of our house were empty. Along the curbs, one could see scattered military uniforms. My brother went outside the house and returned with empty bullet cases. My Dad told him to throw them away and wash his hands, as if he could wash away the remnants of war.
I was 7 years old when I experienced that fateful day— the day that Vietnamese history forever changed. I just remember life became different from that day on.
There were neighborhood meetings and children wearing red scarves as a mark of unity.
There were long lines to buy foods and limited items sold at the store.
There were meals of mixed rice and sweet potato because there were food shortages and not enough money to buy rice.
Things were simplified to the core: stay small and stay unseen. That was our new way of life.
Several things happened to our extended family in the next few years, leading up to our decision to leave the country. My aunt took 6 children with her, ranging in age from 7 to 16, from three different families, and embarked on a fateful tiny boat (LA 8424) to leave the country in the middle of the night.
Looking back, there was absolutely no way I could have done what she did. She carried the hope of three families and escaped the “new” regime, risking everything, including her own life.
Summer 1981
It took us seven days on a small fishing boat traveling from Viet Nam to Terengganu, Malaysia. There was a storm, Vietnamese Coast Guards shooting, a scarcity of food and water…the common tragedies amongst boat people. When we were taken by a ferry to go to the main refugee camp, Pulau Bidong, life truly reached a turning point. We were part of hundreds of thousands of people with no country. At 13 years old, I was grateful that the US accepted our extended family–my aunt and 6 children—to come to the land of opportunity.
Looking back, I appreciate being part of that wave of refugees who left the country of Viet Nam, determined to create a new future. I remember long nights staying up to translate school material from English to Vietnamese.
I remember thinking to myself, one day I will understand English, and I will tell them what I represented and how I feel.
That day never came.
I decided I would show the world who I have become through my actions.
Daily line up to get rationed fresh water in refugee camp
Old Man Saving Young Lady Memorial, Pulau Bidong
Knighted as a Lady with son and Editor Austin Nguyen
Journey Into The Future
• Valedictorian
• Phi Beta Kappa
• Magna cum laude
• Doctor of Dental Surgery
• Amazon Best Seller
• International Speaker
• High Performance Coach
• Knighted Lady of The Royal Order of Constantine The Great and Saint Helen
• Director of the Los Angeles Tribune Global Journals
• Co-Founder of the Los Angeles Tribune International Film Festival …………
These are not typical achievements in a refugee life. They are the products of challenges overcome and great opportunities bestowed in this land of freedom.
This April 30, 2025, I reflect on the 50th-year commemoration of the end of the Viet Nam War along with millions of Vietnamese people away from our motherland.
In God We Trust, and we are grateful for this journey of Resilience, Faith, and Appreciation.
May God Bless America!
gAMe chAngeR:
In 2022, Jenny Nguyen opened The Sports Bra, a cozy bar in Northeast Portland with a radical concept: only play sports that rarely get the spotlight—namely, women’s sports. What began as a bold experiment quickly sparked a national movement.
Nguyen, a second-generation Vietnamese American and daughter of refugees, grew up navigating questions of identity, belonging, and representation. Her story—like many within the Vietnamese diaspora—is one of resilience, reinvention, and quiet strength. With The Sports Bra, she wove those values into a brickand-mortar reality, creating not just a business, but a cultural shift. A space where norms are challenged, inclusion is championed, and community
Jenny Nguyen in original Sports Bar, NE Portland, Oregon (photo credit Round 21)
bAR, A Mission, And A MoveMent
By Lyllian Nguyen
At its core, The Sports Bra was founded to offer “a new perspective on women’s sports, spectators, fandom, and franchise ownership.” What started as a welcoming neighborhood spot where people could enjoy a game, grab great food, and gather with intention has evolved into something far greater: a national platform advocating for access, equity, and visibility in sports.
And the impact is undeniable. From its Portland roots, The Sports Bra has grown into a movement—one that is redefining the sports entertainment and hospitality industries. With new franchise locations opening across the country in the future, Nguyen’s vision is no longer just local—it’s transformational. “I knew I had to create something that mattered,” she says. “If not, I wouldn’t finish it.”
Her leadership arrives at a pivotal moment for Portland, a city increasingly recognized as a hub for global sports culture. With major players like Nike, Adidas, and Columbia Sportswear headquartered nearby and a new WNBA team set to launch in 2026, Portland is embracing its role as a center of innovation and inclusion. The Sports Bra has been a trailblazer in that journey, helping to reimagine what sports culture can look like when equity leads.
Running from June 2025 to June 2026, the program will feature clinics, workshops, and cross-cultural events aimed at building skills and mutual understanding between young people in both countries
Closer to home, Nguyen is also lending her voice to Portland’s Dare to Dream (D2D) Basketball Clinic, a youth-focused program offering free training and leadership development. The inaugural event welcomed over 100 young athletes and was made possible by local sponsors including Tonkin Toyota, East 7th, Project10B Consulting, and Country Financial. Though Nguyen wasn’t involved in the first clinic, her interest in future collaboration speaks volumes about her dedication to investing in youth, community-building, and the next generation of change-makers.
From the first pint poured in Portland to nationwide expansion and global partnership, Jenny Nguyen is showing the world that sports can be a catalyst for lasting impact. As a daughter of refugees, her journey reflects the creativity, heart, and determination of the Vietnamese American experience.
The Sports Bra isn’t just a business—it’s a platform for progress. A space where representation rises, culture evolves, and communities come together.
Nguyen’s impact extends far beyond the barstool. She’s voiced strong support for rising Vietnamese American athletes, including professional basketball player Andre Huynh, who is spearheading a U.S.–Vietnam initiative focused on youth development, leadership, and cultural exchange through basketball.
For fans, investors, and advocates alike, The Sports Bra offers not just a place to watch the game, but an opportunity to be part of the movement.
Lyllian Nguyen, Jenny Nguyen, Andre Huynh and Julia Babcock at the Moda Center (photo credit Lyllian Nguyen)
Dare to Dream youth basketball coaches (photo credit Lyllian Nguyen)
Remembering The Past: Our Journey in Films
Dr. Emily Letran
I recently had the opportunity to attend a movie screening event hosted by Ysa Le, the Executive Director of the Vietnamese American Arts and Letters Association in Orange County, USA.
The screening opened with The Waves Now Calm, a short film about a retired Malaysian fisherman recounting his memories of Bidong Island in Malaysia, which was a destination for thousands of Vietnamese people during the tumultuous decades of the Vietnamese exodus. Since I was a refugee on this particular island in 1981, the short film brought back memories flooded with emotions and gratitude. Back then, nothing was calm, because thousands of us lived in cramped spaces with little food and rations of fresh water divided between each family every day.
Now, the island has become a tourist destination for many Vietnamese people. They come back to trace the same steps from the Jetty to the Hill of Religion,
where everyone went to pray for the earliest acceptance to a free country, yearning for a settlement to leave their wretched past. They searched for remnants of burial places, where refugees might have survived the treacherous seas but succumbed to illness and stayed on the island for eternity. The film was short but the effects were enduring. Many of us could not hold back our tears, sitting in a beautiful, air-conditioned library room and living in a country that does not know the meaning of war.
I then had the opportunity to watch the film The Fading Light by Director Thien Do, which tells the story of a man seeking to make sense of the events that shaped his life.
The story took place in the attic, only one room in his childhood home, and the opening beautifully depicted 2 brothers trying to fish a token from underneath the floorboards with chopsticks.
It reminded us of the many simple games we played back in Viet Nam because there were no fancy toys and certainly no electronic devices.
The scenes in the movie, from dusty cobwebs to the moon over the ocean, brought back memories of uncomplicated lives and those fateful trips escaping into the dark oceans of uncertainty.
When asked about the ambition for the movie, Thien said the project was essentially his “film school.” He made a film to learn the production process instead of using his money to go to film school. He learned a lot of “what not to do”s and was very proud that the first film he directed and edited happened during a transitional period from traditional film to digital.
He shot the movie in film and finished in HD video and has since embraced a career in film production. He smiled and was very proud of his accomplishment.
The third movie showcased was Finding the Virgo, produced by attorney Lauren Vuong. It recounts the story of Vietnamese boat refugees who were rescued at sea by the US-based cargo ship LNG Virgo in 1980. Once settled in the United States, one family of survivors, led by their daughter, embarked on a 36-year search for the captain and crew of the ship that gave them their new life. The story of gratitude would break anyone’s heart. As she researched, she realized her story documented the journey of the whole Vietnamese community, a community built on compassion and gratitude, recognizing those who came to our rescue. She talked about our collective gratitude and the hope to preserve our stories and showcase our Vietnamese heritage for generations to come.
The afternoon screening was a simple gathering. In the small meeting room, I could feel an overwhelming amount of gratitude and appreciation. From this moment of reflection, we will go on with our lives to make a difference in the world, knowing that whatever we do will have a ripple effect that we may never know.
Film screening with Thien Do and Lauren Vuong
Tribute to Song Lang: A Cinematic Masterpiece with 54 Awards
Amy Nitao, Executive Producer
In the vibrant tapestry of Vietnamese cinema, Song Lang stands out as a poetic and powerful ode to art, identity, and redemption. Directed by Leon Le, this visually stunning film has captured hearts and accolades alike—amassing an impressive 54 international awards, a testament to its artistic brilliance and emotional depth.
Set in 1980s Saigon, Song Lang tells the story of an unexpected bond between Dũng, a debt collector hardened by life, and Linh Phụng, a charismatic cải lương (Vietnamese opera) performer. Their encounter sparks a quiet transformation, set against the fading glory of traditional theatre and the shadows of their personal struggles. With its rich cultural textures and haunting score, the film transcends borders, resonating with audiences around the globe.
Behind this cinematic gem is a journey as compelling as the story it tells—one now revealed in Behind the Screen, an exclusive book that peels back the curtain on Song Lang’s creation. From behind-the-scenes photos and personal reflections to costume sketches and directorial insights, the book offers fans and film lovers a rare glimpse into the soul of the production.
Behind the Screen Book is more than a companion to the film—it’s a celebration of Vietnamese heritage, a tribute to the power of storytelling, and a collector’s dream for anyone moved by Song Lang’s tender beauty. Don’t miss the chance to own this intimate chronicle of a film that has become a modern classic.
You can get the book at 30 Centerpointe Dr #8 La Palma, CA 90623 and contact Amy for further inquiries: 714-363-6949
Executive Producer Amy Nitao and Director Leon Le of “Spng Lang”
Scenes from Song Lang
A Personal Reflection on Vietnamese
A Journey of Art, Legacy, and Healing
By Lyllian Nguyen
As a second-generation Vietnamese American born in 1977, just two years after the Fall of Saigon, my life has always been rooted in stories—stories of escape, survival, and starting over. My parents came to the United States as refugees in 1975, carrying nothing but a deep love for their homeland and a fierce hope for a better future. Growing up in the US, I heard the stories of war, sacrifice, and resilience. But it wasn’t until I visited Vietnam in 2023 that I truly understood the soul of the country they left behind.
What I found was not a place frozen in the trauma of the past, but a vibrant, living culture with a deep reverence for art, beauty, and community. From the expressive brushstrokes of local painters to the soul-stirring rhythms of traditional music, I saw a people who continue to speak their truth through creativity. That love for the arts was overwhelming, and it helped me realize that this, too, was my inheritance.
Today, I carry my mother’s legacy forward. She was a woman who believed in education and built a school in her childhood town in northern Vietnam, a bright yellow building nestled in the lush countryside, standing proudly beside an old cathedral with French architectural charm. That school is more than a building. It is a beacon of hope and knowledge, and a reflection of her enduring love for our people.
A few years ago, I had an encounter that reminded me just how deep and far-reaching these legacies are. I had taken my children to the beach one afternoon. As they played in the sand, I noticed an older gentleman walking solemnly by himself. Something about his presence tugged at me. I approached him and asked if he was okay. I saw the Southern Vietnamese flag pin on his hat, and I knew—I needed to thank him.
Sign of the family name on school
Lyllian’s grand-parents Mr and Mrs Pham Xuan Rung and parents Pham Thi Nhuan and Nguyen Dinh Kim built in their childhood town, Nghia Hung, Nam Dinh Vietnam.
I told him that because of people like him, my parents were able to come to the United States. That I was here, alive and free, raising Vietnamese American children because he fought in a war that gave us that chance. He shared that he had just lost his wife and missed her deeply. We sat together on a log, near the sounds of children laughing and waves rolling in. He told me stories about her—his voice filled with both sorrow and love.
Then, quietly, he took off his pin and handed it to me. He said he wasn’t sure, after all these years, if going to Vietnam was the right decision. But today, seeing me—a young Vietnamese mother living freely, offering thanks for his service—gave him peace. He said it was the comfort he didn’t know he needed. We shared tears and then parted ways.
That moment lives with me. It was a bridge between generations. Between war and healing. Between sacrifice and legacy.
As the President of the Oregon Vietnamese American Cultural Center, I believe that the stories of our community—past, present, and future—must be told and honored. Whether through writing, film, or visual art, these expressions are our collective love language. They are the bridges between generations, between what was and what will be.
This April 30, 2025, marks the 50th anniversary of the Fall of Saigon. Across the country, Vietnamese Americans are commemorating this historic day.
In San Jose, 50 flags will line the streets of Little Saigon, symbolizing 50 years of resilience, remembrance, and contribution. In Oregon, a powerful legislative milestone is underway.
State Representative Daniel Nguyen, a trailblazer in our community, has introduced a House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) to officially designate April 30th as Vietnamese American Remembrance Day in Oregon. He personally texted me about this effort, sharing the importance of community participation.
On April 14 at 8 a.m., he will present the bill before the Rules Committee. It will be a profound opportunity for elders, community leaders, and advocates to speak publicly, becoming part of the official public record. This moment invites us to witness democracy in action and to share our truths, our histories, and our dreams.
The resolution honors not only the lives lost and the sacrifices made by both South Vietnamese and US military members, but also the courage of more than 800,000 Vietnamese refugees who rebuilt their lives in America. Many of them call Oregon home. It is a recognition of our contributions to politics, science, business, healthcare, and, of course, the arts. It is a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and how much further we will go.
On April 30, Representative Nguyen will present the bill for a final vote before the Oregon House of Representatives. The Vietnamese community is invited to attend and witness this historic moment in the legislative gallery in-person. To have our voices heard and our stories acknowledged in this way, on this day, is nothing short of historic.
As we reflect on 50 years of Vietnamese American life, it’s important to consider how we pass on these stories to future generations. Art and literature provide powerful tools for this journey. For young children, the illustrated short film Boat People, directed by Kjell Boersma and Thao Lam, beautifully introduces themes of sacrifice and survival through metaphor. As a child in Vietnam, Thao’s mother often rescued ants from bowls of sugar water. Years later, they returned the favor. It’s a poetic entry point into understanding the refugee experience.
Another moving short film, Yellow Balloon, written by Summer Luu and Olyvia Chac-Nguyen and produced by Stephanie Duong and SUM SUM, tells the story of a Vietnamese-American child adopted by their immigrant grandparents who seek self-acceptance and the courage to let go. It’s a tender reflection on identity and love between generations.
Our literary landscape has also flourished. The Vietnamese American Arts & Letters Association (VAALA) continues to spotlight essential voices. Over the decades, our stories have evolved from those of war and displacement to layered narratives of identity, belonging, and reinvention. Notable authors and creatives include:
• Viet Thanh Nguyen, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Sympathizer
• Andrew Lam, journalist and author of Perfume Dreams
• Lan Cao, legal scholar and author of Monkey Bridge
• Carolyn Huynh, author of The Fortune of the Jaded Women
• Chef Tu David Phu, Top Chef alum and author of The Memory of Taste
• Vinh Nguyen, professor and author of The Migrant Rain Falls in Reverse
VAALA’s exploration of Vietnamese-language literature abroad has also highlighted important voices like:
• Cung Tích Biền, author of Bạch Hóa (Transparency) and Xứ Động Vật (The Country of Animals)
• Đặng Thơ Thơ, author of Ai and Beyond Borders: Stories from The Vietnamese Diaspora
• Trịnh Y Thư, composer and author of Đường Về Thủy Phủ (Road to Thủy Phủ)
• Kalynh Ngô, translator of My Vietnam, Your Vietnam – Việt Nam Của Con, Việt Nam Của Cha
These creators, through their art, remind us of who we are and where we come from. They help us find meaning in our history and inspire future generations to speak boldly and live authentically.
As I reflect on this journey—from my parents’ refugee flight to my own rediscovery of Vietnam through art and storytelling—I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and responsibility. Gratitude for the sacrifices of those who came before me. Responsibility to carry their legacy forward.
This 50th anniversary is not only a remembrance of loss. It is a celebration of identity. Of who we are. Of what we’ve built. Of where we’re going.
Representative Daniel Nguyen with Oregon Vietnamese American Culture Center, OVACC Executive Board, Lyllian Nguyen, My Tien Kent, Man Ninh, Hai Ninh, Khang Tran, Principle of McDaniel HS Adam Skyles (photo credit Anthony Jordan Photography)
THE MUSICAL
The First Broadway-Style Musical Telling the Vietnamese American Story on a Major U.S. Stage
- Nancy Bui
In 2025, we mark 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War—a conflict that left deep scars and changed millions of lives. VIETNAMERICA: The Musical pays tribute to the powerful journey of over two million Vietnamese who risked everything for freedom. They fled their homeland through unimaginable hardship, carrying with them only hope and the will to survive.
These brave souls left behind their homes, land, and even loved ones, because life without freedom was no life at all. They crossed oceans in fragile boats, facing storms, starvation, and pirates. Others walked barefoot across battlefields and the deadly Killing Fields of Cambodia, searching for safety. More than half a million never made it—lost to the sea or the jungle, with no graves and no names.
Some were imprisoned in re-education camps, enduring beatings, hunger, and humiliation. Many never lived to see the outside world again.
But those who survived didn’t just rebuild—they thrived. Today, the Vietnamese American community is one of the largest and most successful refugee communities in the U.S.
Their contributions span every field—five generals in the U.S. military, elected officials in Congress, doctors, lawyers, scientists, engineers, artists, and award-winning writers and poets. They have not only rebuilt their lives, but they’ve enriched the nation they now proudly call home.
VIETNAMERICA: The Musical is a powerful adaptation of the award-winning documentary film VIETNAMERICA, which has been widely used as educational material in many high schools and universities across the country. More than just a stage production, it is a tribute, a remembrance, and a celebration of resilience.
The musical honors the first generation who endured unimaginable hardship and pays tribute to the younger generations who continue to carry their legacy forward with pride and purpose.
Through powerful music, storytelling, and Broadway-style production, VIETNAMERICA brings to life a journey of pain, perseverance, and triumph—proving one eternal truth:
WITH FREEDOM, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.
VIETNAMERICA: The Musical
Premieres: September 7, 2025
Venue: Capital One Hall, 7750 Capital One Tower Drive, Tysons, VA 22102.
Contact: Nancy Bui
Executive Producer
Phone: (512) 844-8417
Email: nancy@vietnameseamerican.org
JUST A TEAR FOR THE FILM “BOOK OF DEATH”
Jenny Ai Trinh Thai
To commemorate 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War, I decided to produce a documentary together with 3L TV, ALAN VO FORD, DR. EMILY LETRAN, THAI HA, LAM TUYET TRANG, LYNN NGUYEN, KIM ANH, KIM QUYEN, JASON NGUYEN, and many other friends and supporters.
The film “BOOK OF DEATH” includes 4 episodes:
1. Requiem for Lost Souls
2. Defying Heroes
3. The Exile
4. American Dreams
This docudrama is based on true stories that compiled the most horrendous tragedies of Vietnamese people because of the war’s aftermath. The film has touched many hearts around the world and made them cry.
People cried seeing so many senseless deaths in wartime and its aftermath, seeing generals commit suicide in front of their wives, children, and soldiers.
People cried seeing fallen soldiers on battle fields, seeing soldiers who lost the war suffering in the most deadly prisons, many of their deaths unknown. People cried seeing Vietnamese people risk their lives at sea, so many of them suffering horrible deaths because of hunger, thirst, storms, rape, pirates, illness, and disorientation— all in their search for freedom. Hundreds and thousands of them died in nameless mass graves either in the ocean, the jungles, or refugee camps in Southeast Asia.
Our American Dream was sometimes built on tears and blood, paved by the souls and bodies of our family members. This horrendous page of Vietnamese history seems to be long forgotten.
But the film “BOOK OF DEATH” will bring you back to this historical crisis of humanity and the call for PEACE ON EARTH.
Pope Francis and His Holiness Dalai Lama have blessed this book and film. The film also gained support from many prestigious people around the world. It earned a Humanity Award in Hollywood and another Humanity Award in Cannes.
In May 2025, the BOOK OF DEATH film crew will go to the Philippines to place a cross on Lubang island. This was where many Vietnamese refugees lost their lives. We are also invited to cut the inaugural ribbon for the Memorial Plaque at the museum and have our first world premiere showcased in their festival. This is an honor for 3L TV and friends. After the Philippines, our film will be presented in Auckland, New Zealand, and Bangkok, Thailand. This is just the beginning of our world tour, spreading the message of Humanity, Faith, and Peace.
Movie Scene: Haunting spirits in refugees lives - with Thanh Lan and Tuyet Trang
Movie Scene: Wife ( Lynn Nguyen) and mother-in-law ( Ngoc Lan) of General Le Van Hung ( Sean Le) are mourning his death in the worship room )
Movie Scene: Dr. Emily Letran, Alan Vo Ford, Jenny Thai visit the museum where Mr. Chau Thuy exhibits the real Vietnamese refugee boat.
“BOOK OF DEATH”
Để kỷ niệm 50 năm Chiến tranh Việt Nam, 3L TV, JENNY THÁI, ALAN VO FORD, BÁC SĨ EMILY LETRAN, THÁI HÀ, LÂM TUYẾT TRANG, LYNN NGUYEN, KIM ANH, KIM QUYEN, JASON NGUYEN cùng những người bạn đã sản xuất bộ phim “BOOK OF DEATH”, gồm 4 tập:
1. Requiem for Lost Souls
2. Defying Heroes
3. Exile
4. American Dreams
Bộ phim nửa tài liệu nửa phim truyện này dựa trên những câu chuyện có thật, tổng hợp những bi kịch kinh hoàng nhất của người dân Việt Nam do hậu quả của chiến tranh. Bộ phim đã chạm đến trái tim của nhiều người trên khắp thế giới và khiến họ phải khóc.
Mọi người đã khóc khi chứng kiến quá nhiều cái chết vô nghĩa trong thời chiến và sau chiến tranh. Mọi người đã khóc khi chứng kiến các vị tướng tự sát trước mặt vợ con và binh lính của họ.
Mọi người đã khóc khi chứng kiến những người lính ngã xuống trên chiến trường. Mọi người khóc khi thấy những người lính đã mất phải chịu đau khổ trong những nhà tù chết chóc nhất và nhiều cái chết của họ không được biết đến. Mọi người khóc khi thấy nhiều người Việt Nam liều mạng sống của mình trên biển và rất nhiều người trong số họ đã chết một cách khủng khiếp vì đói, khát, bão, hiếp dâm, cướp biển, bệnh tật, mất phương hướng….. trong hành trình tìm kiếm tự do. Hàng trăm ngàn người trong số họ đã chết trong những ngôi mộ tập thể không tên ở đại dương, hoặc trong rừng rậm, hoặc các trại tị nạn ở Đông Nam Á.
Giấc mơ Mỹ của chúng ta đôi khi được xây dựng trên máu và nước mắt, đôi khi được tạo nên bởi linh hồn và thể xác của các thành viên trong gia đình chúng ta. Trang sử kinh hoàng này của Việt Nam dường như đã bị lãng quên từ lâu.
Giấc mơ Mỹ của chúng ta đôi khi được xây dựng trên máu và nước mắt, đôi khi được tạo nên bởi linh hồn và
thể xác của các thành viên trong gia đình chúng ta. Trang sử kinh hoàng này của Việt Nam dường như đã bị lãng quên từ lâu.
Nhưng bộ phim “BOOK OF DEATH” sẽ đưa bạn trở lại phần đau thương này của cuộc khủng hoảng nhân loại trong quá khứ và kêu gọi HÒA BÌNH TRÊN TRÁI ĐẤT.
Đức Giáo hoàng Francis và Đức Dalai Lama đã ban phước cho cuốn sách và bộ phim này. Bộ phim cũng nhận được sự ủng hộ của nhiều người có uy tín trên thế giới. Nó đã giành được một giải thưởng nhân đạo tại Hollywood và một giải thưởng nhân đạo khác tại Cannes.
Vào tháng 5 năm 2025, đoàn làm phim BOOK OF DEATH
được mời đến Philippines để đặt một cây thánh giá trên đảo Lubang, nơi có nhiều người tị nạn Việt Nam đã mất mạng. Chúng tôi cũng được mời cắt băng khánh thành tấm bia tưởng niệm tại bảo tàng Philippines và có buổi ra mắt phim thế giới đầu tiên tại liên hoan phim của họ. Đây là vinh dự cho 3L TV và những người bạn. Sau Philippines, bộ phim của chúng tôi sẽ được trình chiếu tại Auckland, New Zealand và Bangkok, Thái Lan. Đây chỉ là khởi đầu cho chuyến lưu diễn vòng quanh thế giới của chúng tôi…..
Movie Scene: Dr. Emily Letran, Alan Vo Ford, Jenny Thai visit the museum where Mr. Chau Thuy exhibits the real Vietnamese refugee boat.
Movie Scene: Haunting spirits in refugees liveswith Thanh Lan and Tuyet Trang
Movie Scene: Wife ( Lynn Nguyen) and mother-in-law ( Ngoc Lan) of General Le Van Hung ( Sean Le) are mourning his death in the worship room )
