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Honoring the Legacy and Service of Pang Mang Thao and proclaiming Wednesday, May 7, 2025, as Pang Mang Thao Day in the City of Saint Paul.
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WHEREAS, Pang Mang Thao is a respected Hmong-American community leader and veteran advocate based in Minnesota. He has served as the President of the Lao Veterans of America (LVA) Minnesota chapter, playing a pivotal role in advocating for the recognition and support of Hmong and Lao veterans who served during the Vietnam War; and
WHEREAS, His wisdom, compassion, and vision have impacted countless families and communities. Even today, he continues to serve passionately in various organizations. His leadership journey has spanned over 40 years; and
WHEREAS, Born in Laos, Pang Mang Thao lost his father at the age of four and was raised by his mother’s side of the Xiong family. As he grew older, he left his village to pursue education in the cities. In 1969, he began teaching elementary school in Xam Neua, Laos. Prior to his marriage in 1970, Pang Mang was already serving as a secretary to a respected elder clan leader, Mr. Hua Laum Thao, who recognized his natural leadership abilities. Mr. Thao blessed him and predicted that Pang Mang would become a great leader for his people-a prediction that proved true; and
WHEREAS, Due to the impacts of the Vietnam War, Pang Mang Thao and his family fled Laos and resettled as refugees in Ban Vinai, Thailand, in 1979. In 1980, they immigrated to the United States, settling in St. Paul, Minnesota. Shortly after arriving, Pang Mang continued his leadership journey. In 1981, while living in Roosevelt Homes (public housing townhomes), he was elected as a local community leader among two others. He helped assess family needs, worked on crime prevention initiatives, and coordinated social services for over 360 families. Pang Mang was re-elected to this leadership position for eight consecutive terms from 1981 to 1989; and
WHEREAS, His reputation for wise leadership gr...
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