THE STORY BEGINS:
Commemorating 50 Years of Vietnamese Culture
The Vietnamese American community in Portland will be commemorating a profound milestone - 50 years since the beginning of a new chapter for many Vietnamese immigrants in America, April 30th, 2025. This moment symbolizes half a century of resilience, growth, and contributions to the city’s vibrant culture. To honor this legacy, we invite you to join us through a series of gatherings celebrating the Vietnamese impact on Portland and American culture.
The 50th Year Commemoration: Vietnamese Heritage Event will unfold into a three part series of exhibits, installations, and acknowledgements —The Past, The Present, and The Future. The events showcase the resilience and achievements of the community, acknowledge its transformative role in Portland, and inspire the next generation to continue this rich legacy.
The Past begins on April 4th, 2025, at the Oswego Heritage House Museum with an exhibit - “And the Story Begins.” This exhibition captures the perspective of a Vietnamese immigrant artist, reflecting on a pivotal moment in his life: transitioning from the familiarity of his home just six months prior to navigating a new country, language, and culture. This collection of art is one experience through the eyes of a Vietnamese man coming to America after the end of a war.
The Present gathers on April 30th, 2025, for “50 Years of Vietnamese Contribution." The event will take place at the Oregon Historical Society in downtown Portland. This public event is to recognize how the Vietnamese community has contributed to Oregon in the last 50 years.
The Future will be held on May 17th, 2025, at the Jeffrey Allen Gallery, to proudly present “Wishes for the Vietnamese American Future.” This event will debut the Mother Spirit Temple (Đền Mẫu Vân Hương) as a recognized Vietnamese artifact and cultural heritage practice, and celebrating its 50-year contribution to shaping Vietnamese identity in Oregon. An art installation will showcase 2nd and 3rd generation Vietnamese American families, honoring the cultural legacy that bridges the past, present, and future.
