The First Montagnard Leaders in the U.S. | Dr. Y-Siu Hlong’s Immigration Story

In this powerful oral history, Dr. Y-Siu Hlong shares his unforgettable journey as one of the first Montagnard refugees to arrive in the United States on November 23, 1986. Speaking from lived experience, he describes the fear, confusion, and emotional moment of arriving in a completely new world after years of survival in the jungles of Vietnam’s Central Highlands. From not knowing how to shop for food or use food stamps, to struggling with language barriers and cultural shock, Dr. Y-Siu Hlong recounts both the hardship and humor of starting over. This video preserves the voices of the Jarai, Koho, Rhade, Bunong, and other Montagnard peoples who rebuilt their lives in America while holding onto their identity, traditions, and shared history. The story also honors the leaders and allies who helped build a future for the Montagnard community, including Cil Guk (Pap Buih), Pierre K’Bruih, Pastor Y-Hin Nie (Ama H’Brin), Suon Ronang, Luis Y-Pen Bing, and many others who organized the Montagnard Dega Association (MDA) to provide jobs, English classes, healthcare access, and community support. Dr. Y-Siu Hlong also expresses deep gratitude to American sponsors and advocates such as Don Scott, Chuck Putson, Carl Regan, Father Frank, and supporters at Catholic churches and humanitarian organizations who stood with the refugees during their most vulnerable years. This documentary is not only a personal testimony, but a vital record of Montagnard resilience, leadership, and the enduring struggle to protect culture, unity, and identity for future generations. The Montagnard Community Wellness Center: A Glimpse into Future Healing Spaces Exploring the Montagnard Wellness Center, we envision a future healing space rooted in ancestral wisdom and community strength. We're showcasing how traditional practices and modern care converge, creating a sanctuary where cultural heritage supports holistic well-being, preserving identity while fostering health for generations to come. #community #support #wellness #culture #preservation It’s not just a community center. It’s a place to heal, a place to grow, a place to preserve our culture, and a place to call home! Dream big with us and leave a legacy for the next generation. Consider making a legacy gift to help build the Montagnard community wellness center. Click here to pledge, https://www.zeffy.com/donation-form/0... If you enjoyed this video, please like, subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with others who care about our culture. Your support truly means a lot—thank you! CREDITS: The videos and pictures for the b-rolls came from the following sources: Kia Siu and Don Kpa Facebook: MANC, Jeanne Regan, Y-Pen Bing Louis Pixabay website: Alexander Lutkov, Emilio Amador, Penny, Rinku Jereda, & Salvador Varon Website: Saint Mary's Catholic Church of Greensboro #Montagnard #MontagnardRefugees #VietnamCentralHighlands #Jarai #Koho #Rhade #Bunong #IndigenousVietnam #RefugeeStory #MontagnardHistory #ImmigrantExperience