On July 2 at the Opening Ceremony of the huge Hmong soccer tournament in St. Paul, I was greatly honored. Not only did I stand next to the great General Vang Pao's son (who was here from California) at the ribbon cutting, but for the second time in a few years I was the guest speaker. An even greater honor came when the General's son asked me to sit next to him. We had an extensive talk about the serious challenges facing many Hmong. The General's son and many of the clan leaders thanked me for my 20 year leadership effort on behalf of Hmong people. I will never forget that honor.
The General's son really impressed me with his deep concern and efforts for the many Hmong who are not having a lot of success. I did commit to the General's son that I would continue to advocate for Hmong issues in the legislature.