Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee, formally recognized the Hmong delegation on the Senate floor, honoring the community and the service of the Hmong Vietnam Veterans who served alongside United States forces during the Vietnam War.

“It was an honor to welcome the Hmong community to the Senate floor and recognize the incredible legacy of service and sacrifice they represent,” Jett said. “Their contributions, both in defense of freedom during the Vietnam War and in strengthening our communities here in Oklahoma, deserve to be celebrated and remembered. We are proud to stand with them and honor their heritage at our State Capitol.”

Also joining the festivities was Sen. Julie McIntosh, R-Porter, whose district is home to the annual Oklahoma Hmong New Year festival and the future site of a Hmong heritage center.

“It has been a pleasure to get to know the Hmong families in my district and to support their efforts to preserve and celebrate their rich cultural heritage here in Oklahoma. I’m especially excited about the new heritage center they are building in Inola, which will serve as a meaningful space for education and remembrance. It was an honor to host members of the Hmong community at the Capitol as we recognized their Vietnam War veterans who bravely served alongside U.S. forces and helped save countless American lives. We were grateful to experience their vibrant culture — through traditional dress, food, and dance — and to share that with others here at the Capitol,” McIntosh said.

Hmong Day visitors experienced a rich showcase of Hmong traditions, including cultural performances, ceremonial attire, traditional cuisine, and tributes to Hmong Vietnam War veterans.