Governor Stein Proclaims Montagnard Dega People's Day

Montagnard Dega People’s Day

2026

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, around 40,000 Montagnard Dega Indigenous tribespeople from the Central Highlands of Vietnam courageously contributed to and aided the United States Armed Forces during the Vietnam War, and in recognition of their alliance and sacrifice, the United States assisted many Montagnard families in resettling in North Carolina; and

Whereas, thousands of Montagnard refugees have resettled in North Carolina since the end of the Vietnam War, making North Carolina home to the largest population of Montagnards outside of Asia; and

Whereas, since their arrival in the 1980s, Montagnards have contributed to the growth and diversity of the State of North Carolina as business owners, active-duty and veteran service members, community leaders, educators, and cultural stewards; and

Whereas, the Montagnard community continues to preserve its rich cultural heritage while strengthening communities across North Carolina through service, resilience, and leadership; and

Whereas, the State of North Carolina joins in honoring and commemorating the thousands of Montagnard Vietnam War veterans who have lived and passed on North Carolina soil after serving alongside the United States Armed Forces; and

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim September 20, 2026, as “Montagnard Dega People’s Day” in North Carolina and commend its observance.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this eighth day of September in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-sixth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fifty-first.