Xiong Introduces Resolution Recognizing Hmong Special Guerilla Units Remembrance Day

State Rep. Mai Xiong (D-Warren) speaking on the House floor next to Chong Cher Xiong, President of the SGU Veterans and Families of Michigan, on May 14, 2025, in the Michigan Capitol Building in Michigan.

 

LANSING, Mich., May 14, 2025 — State Rep. Mai Xiong (D-Warren) introduced a resolution to declare May 14, 2025, as Hmong Special Guerilla Units Remembrance Day in the state of Michigan. The day honors the bravery and contributions of the Hmong people of Laos, whom the CIA enlisted to aid in defending against North Vietnamese and Pathet Lao forces during the Vietnam War.

“I am proud to honor the story of the Hmong Special Guerilla Units, as it is also the personal history of my own family. My father was just 17 when he was recruited to aid U.S. forces in the Vietnam War,” Xiong said. “Today, I was honored to be joined by Michigan’s Hmong community in the Capitol Building to honor our family legacy, as well as the continued contributions of Hmong Americans to democratic freedoms, from our educators and health care professionals to our community leaders.”

Xiong recognized the courage, profound sacrifices and invaluable contributions made by her own family members, including her late father Vang Shoua Xiong, her late grandfather Wa Chu Xiong, her late father-in-law Kue Fong and and Chong Cher Xiong, President of the SGU Veterans and Families of Michigan. She emphasized the estimated 30,000 lives lost and 150,000 others displaced during the conflict, and called upon all Michiganders to stand in solidarity and understanding with the Hmong community. 

“During the month of May, we also commemorate Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month by honoring the generations of families who fought hard to come to this country, defend our freedoms and contribute to our shared culture,” Xiong continued. “This resolution is reflective of the rich history and stories that Michigan is made of — stories of resilience, family and stopping at nothing to keep our loved ones and freedoms safe. I am grateful to pass down this history.”

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