This Event has Passed
Black April Commemoration Day (April 30, 1975 - We Remember. We Honor. We Do Not Forget)
The collapse of South Vietnam (The Republic of Vietnam) marked the beginning of mass displacement, imprisonment, and other hardships for many families.
We gather on this solemn day to remember April 30, 1975 the date that marks the fall of Saigon, but more importantly, the beginning of unimaginable hardship for millions of the South Vietnamese people.
For many in this community, Black April is not distant history: it is personal. The stories are carried by our parents, grandparents and, in some cases, by our own memories.
Black April is not only about loss - it is about truth. It is about honoring those who were silenced, those who were imprisoned, those who risked everything for freedom, and those who never made it to safe shores. It is about acknowledging a chapter of history that is too often overlooked, misunderstood, or forgotten.
Today, we pause to honor the fallen soldiers of the Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces - those who gave their lives in the defense of freedom and never had the chance to see the future for which they fought. Their sacrifice is the foundation of our remembrance, and we carry their legacy forward with deep gratitude.
We also extend our deepest respect to the living veterans of the Republic of Vietnam and to all Vietnam veterans who stood in defense of freedom. Their courage, their endurance, and their sacrifice did not end on the battlefield. Their strength continues to inspire generations.
Members of the media, your role is vital. The stories shared here today are not just community stories—they are human stories. They are stories of resilience, survival, and the enduring pursuit of freedom. By helping bring these voices to a broader audience, you help ensure that history will not be erased or rewritten.
This commemoration is also a reflection of strength. From the ashes of displacement, the Vietnamese Diaspora has built communities, contributed to societies around the world, and continued to stand for the values of freedom and human dignity.
