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Video, Activity :

Video, Activity Refugees from the Vietnam War

  • Grade Level 9th-12th Grade
  • Time Period 1970 - 1989
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Introduction

This resource examines the refugee crisis following the Vietnam War, focusing on the displacement of Vietnamese, Laotian, and Cambodian allies after U.S. withdrawal. Through a series of short videos, students learn about the experiences of Vietnamese “Boat People” and the dangers they faced, as well as the racism and discrimination many encountered upon arrival in the U.S. A group discussion and written assignment prompt students to critically consider the United States’ role in the crisis and the ongoing challenges refugees face today. Optional reading from Viet Thanh Nguyen adds a personal perspective on the refugee experience in America.

Essential Questions

  • Why do people wish to immigrate to the United States?

  • What challenges have immigrants faced in the past? What challenges do they continue to face today?

  • What are some past and present immigration policies? What was the motivation behind the creation of these policies? What was their impact?