New Land Southeast Asian Refugees Finding Home in Washington marks SE Asian refugee arrival in Washington

“New Land: Southeast Asian Refugees Finding Home in Washington” marks the 50th anniversary of Southeast Asian refugees arriving in the state. The book, authored by John C. Hughes and Edward Echtle Jr. , features 15 compelling oral histories that document the trials faced by first-generation refugees and their descendants. After the fall of Saigon in 1975, the first 34 refugees arrived at Camp Murray, with 4,052 settling in Washington by Christmas of the same year.

Secretary of State Steve Hobbs shared his personal connection to these stories, reflecting on his childhood experiences with refugee classmates. The book emphasizes the impact of Asian American communities, which represent 10. 5% of Washington's population, enriching the state's cultural diversity. These narratives offer insight into the resilience and contributions of Southeast Asian refugees to Washington's society. The book is available for purchase through the Office of the Secretary of State online store.

This publication serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of these communities over the past five decades.