Minnesota Lawmaker Reveals Family’s Undocumented Status During Legislative Debate

A Minnesota state representative disclosed on Monday that she and her family have been living in the United States illegally since fleeing Vietnam following the Vietnam War. This revelation came during a heated legislative session focused on amending MinnesotaCare eligibility for undocumented immigrants.

Deep Personal Reflection Amid Legislative Changes

Rep. Kaohly Vang Her participated in a special session called by Governor Tim Walz, where a crucial debate was taking place regarding healthcare access for undocumented adult immigrants. Seizing the moment, Her shared her personal immigration story with her colleagues, emphasizing the human side of the issue.

A Journey from Vietnam to America

Her revealed that her family’s journey to the U.S. began with her father’s efforts to escape the turmoil of war-torn Vietnam. She recounted spending significant time with her father, who had played a pivotal role in their migration.

Misconceptions About Their Immigration Status

Initially, Her believed her family was granted entry due to her grandfather’s position as a colonel in the military, but her father clarified the truth. He had worked at the U.S. Consulate and had the unique ability to communicate quickly and effectively in English, which eventually aided their process.

A Struggle for Refuge

Her’s family faced numerous challenges while navigating their path to the U.S. Several opportunities to immigrate were missed, which Her described as heartbreaking. She recounted a particular memory where her mother insisted that their eventual arrival was not due to mere luck.

Breaking Through Bureaucratic Barriers

Her shared how her family managed to enter the U.S. despite being overlooked in official processes. They utilized an unconventional method by adjusting documentation, which allowed them to align with those who received priority, although it involved a moral dilemma.

Challenging Labels and Stereotypes

During her address, Her emphasized the stereotypes surrounding undocumented immigrants. She argued that many people overlook the difficult choices families make during crises. By sharing her story, she aimed to humanize individuals often labeled as illegal aliens.

Contributions and Sacrifices

Her passionately discussed her family’s contributions to American society. She pointed out that her grandfather had paid taxes throughout his life, despite never receiving any benefits. This highlights the often-invisible sacrifices made by many undocumented immigrants striving to contribute positively while facing systemic challenges.

A Call for Empathy and Justice

With heartfelt conviction, Her urged her colleagues to reconsider their stance on policies affecting undocumented immigrants. She expressed that voting against provisions supporting individuals like her denies countless others the opportunities they seek for a better life.

The Essence of Immigration