Vietnamese-Americans for Barack Obama Rally Planned in Little Saigon, CA
What: Vietnamese Americans for Barack Obama will hold a rally expecting to draw local Obama supporters in Little Saigon, CA in the final days leading to the presidential election. The rally will be the first ever organized in the Vietnamese community for the Democratic presidential nominee. Â
When: Saturday, October 18, 2008, 9am – 11am,
Where: 9393 Bolsa Ave., Westminster, CA, 92683
Who: This event is open to the public and all Barack Obama supporters in Orange County are encouraged to join Vietnamese-Americans in supporting Barack Obama for President.
Why: According to event organizer, Phong Ly, “The Little Saigon area represents the heart of so-called McCain country in Orange County. It is time we change the perception that Vietnamese Americans are lock-step McCain supporters. Our community is very diverse and Senator Obama has great appeal with many Vietnamese-Americans who want a leader who can be trusted with our economy, our foreign policy, our education, our health care, and our standing in the world.”
Organizer Van Le adds, “We also expect to get people tapped into Barack Obama’s campaign phone banking problem and remind people that this is the final weekend to register to vote in California. I had the opportunity to hear firsthand from Senator Obama when he accepted the Democratic nomination for president in Denver. I came away inspired to do something that will make a difference for our community.”Â
Organizer Tammy Tran, an activist against human trafficking adds, “Senator McCain was a honorable Vietnam War hero but that alone should not qualify him to become president today. People should know that Barack Obama has taken a strong position on fighting for human rights and freedom in Vietnam.”
In a June 2008 statement, Senator Obama stated, “It is past time for the government of Vietnam to do far more to protect human rights and to advance the freedom of all of its people.”Â
Ms. Le states, “We hope to draw people from all communities to show our support and unity for the next president of the United States. Please come with your Obama gear and signs. Come at 9 for sign and banner-making.”