*EPF105 05/08/00
Transcript: Congressman Weygand Backs Hmong Citizenship Bill
(Weygand May 4 extension of remarks on H.R. 371) (360)

The United States should ease citizenship requirements for Hmong soldiers who fought beside Americans against communist North Vietnam during the Vietnam War, according to Representative Robert Weygand (Democrat from Rhode Island).

Weygand's comments appeared in the May 4 Congressional Record regarding H.R. 371, a bill that would ease the process for Hmong veterans to gain U.S. citizenship. The bill passed the House of Representatives May 2.

Following is a transcript of Weygand's remarks from the Congressional Record:

(begin transcript)

HMONG VETERANS' NATURALIZATION ACT OF 2000
HON. ROBERT A. WEYGAND
(Extension of Remarks -- May 04, 2000)

HON. ROBERT A. WEYGAND
in the House of Representatives
THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2000

Mr. WEYGAND. Mr. Speaker, Tuesday the House passed H.R. 371, the Hmong Veterans' Naturalization Act of 2000. As a cosponsor of this legislation, I was pleased to support its passage. Many of these brave men have settled in Rhode Island where they make great contributions to their communities. It is time that we recognize the contribution of the Hmong and pass this legislation.

From 1961 to 1975, the Hmong were a significant factor in the U.S. war efforts in Laos and Vietnam. Throughout the conflict in Vietnam the United States recruited the Hmong to fight alongside U.S. soldiers, gather data, conduct reconnaissance, and participate in clandestine missions. During that time, tens of thousands of Hmong were killed or wounded fighting for American interests.

As part of the agreement between the U.S. and the Hmong soldiers, certain promises were made. Among those was the possibility of U.S. citizenship for those who served on behalf of the U.S. However, because they did not have a written language, it is nearly impossible for many of these Hmong to pass the language section of Immigration test. This bill provides the necessary relief for these courageous men.

The time has come to recognize the Hmong and honor our commitment to them.

(end transcript)

(Distributed by the Office of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)

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