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Recognizing the successes of the Hmong International Freedom Festival held by The United Hmong Family, Inc.
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Whereas, the successes of the Hmong International Freedom Festival held by The United Hmong Family, Inc. allow us to look forward to the cherished 50th year celebration of the Hmong people immigrating to the United States this year and 45th Minnesota Hmong New Year held annually at the Saint Paul RiverCentre also hosted by The United Hmong Family, Inc.; and
Whereas, The United Hmong Family, Inc. is a grassroots business incubator that empowers community organizations, nonprofits, small businesses, and local entrepreneurs while also contributing to the growth of our economy; and
Whereas, cultural depth and economic prosperity is inspired by The United Hmong Family, Inc. under the current leadership of President Mee Vang, Vice-President Jerry Yang, and its entire Board of Trustees; and
Whereas, The United Hmong Family, Inc. has hosted the Hmong International Freedom Festival in Saint Paul since 1980, first at Harriet Island Regional Park then Fort Snelling State Park before moving to the McMurray Fields at Como Regional Park in 1991; and
Whereas, the Hmong International Freedom Festival, known among community members as “J4” and the “Hmong Olympics,” has historically drawn thousands of visitors from around the world to Saint Paul during the annual Fourth of July holiday; and
Whereas upon returning to the operations again in 2022 following the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival was attended by over 57,000 guests including athletes, sponsors, vendors, and spectators, generating over $14 million dollars in revenue and $2 million dollars in state taxes; and the board of trustees and honorary Board Members and Advisors have undoubtedly written the Hmong American experience into our city and state’s history; and
Whereas, we eagerly welcome all communities from Saint Paul, across our state and nation, and from around the world to the City of Saint Paul for the historic 43rd annual Hmong International Freedom Festival; and
Be it resolved, the Saint Paul City Council recognizes the profound leadership of The United Hmong Family, Inc. and the vibrant and diverse Hmong community and will celebrate the many achievements the Hmong community has contributed to the city; and be it further
Resolved, that the Saint Paul City Council hereby proclaims Saturday, June 28, 2025, as Hmong International Freedom Festival Day in the City of Saint Paul.