Hmong veterans made extraordinary sacrifices helping American forces during the Vietnam War and I have worked with my colleagues in Congress to make sure that we continue to honor those sacrifices. One of my proudest achievements is working with the late Bruce Vento, U.S. Representative from Minnesota, on passage of the Hmong Veterans Naturalization Act.  This bill, which was signed into law by President Clinton expedited the naturalization process for Hmong veterans.

Ron hosts U.S. Ambassador to Laos, Ravic R. Huso, for a Hmong listening session at UW Eau Claire.

Repatriation and Settlement

Like many, I am still worried about the conditions the Hmong endure in the Laos resettlement village, following last year’s repatriation of the Lao Hmong back to Laos by the Royal Thai Government. That is why I have urged the State Department to continue to press Lao and Thai authorities to improve conditions, allow greater transparency, and honor basic human rights. I will continue to work with the State Department so that my office and our local Hmong community are able to remain actively engaged in settlement issues and ensure we protect Hmong refugees in Laos.

Wisconsin is home to the third largest community of Hmong in the United States. And the Hmong community in western Wisconsin continues to grow. Last year, I was able to host the U.S. Ambassador to Laos, Ravic R. Huso, in Eau Claire for a meeting with members of the local Hmong community. I am pleased that Ambassador Huso was able to visit western Wisconsin, hear from our local Hmong community, and respond to their concerns.  During his visit, he and the attending group of Hmong leaders and community members were able to discuss future Hmong immigration as well as the recent repatriation of the Lao Hmong to Laos. 

Citizenship

I encourage those who are applying for citizenship to visit the USCIS website to learn more about how to become an American citizen. If you are having a problem with Citizenship and Immigration Services, or any other federal agency, please contact my office at 715-831-9214 so that I can ensure your case is being handled appropriately.