Thousands Walk in Ho Chi Minh City to Support Agent Orange Victims
Translated from Vietnamese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Over 5,000 people participated in a walking event in Ho Chi Minh City to raise awareness for Agent Orange/dioxin victims.
- The event coincided with the 65th anniversary of the disaster in Vietnam.
- Participants aimed to spread empathy and support for those affected by the long-lasting consequences of Agent Orange.
More than 5,000 individuals joined a solidarity walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street in Ho Chi Minh City, demonstrating support and solidarity for victims of Agent Orange/dioxin. The event, held on August 2, aimed to spread empathy and strengthen the resolve of those enduring the generational impact of the chemical.
The walk marked the upcoming 65th anniversary of the Agent Orange disaster in Vietnam, observed on August 10. Dignitaries including former Politburo member Nguyen Van Nen and former Vice President Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh were present, alongside thousands of residents, workers, and youth.
The pain of Agent Orange does not stop with one generation but has lasted for 3-4 generations, becoming a great burden for many families and posing significant challenges for society in care and support.
Among the participants was Nguyen Ngoc Phuong, 45, whose parents were war veterans and who, along with a sister, was affected by Agent Orange. Working at a support center for victims in Da Nang, Phuong shared his deep understanding of the challenges faced by those with severe physical and intellectual disabilities caused by the chemical. "Health is what allows people to do many things. Many Agent Orange victims face countless difficulties due to their health damage," Phuong stated, emphasizing the importance of peace, love, and mutual support.
Major General, Associate Professor, People's Doctor Nguyen Hong Son, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Association for Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin, highlighted the enduring suffering. "The pain of Agent Orange does not stop with one generation but has lasted for 3-4 generations, becoming a great burden for many families and posing significant challenges for society in care and support," he said. Son noted that Ho Chi Minh City alone has approximately 25,000 people affected by Agent Orange, presenting a considerable challenge for management and assistance efforts.
Health is what allows people to do many things. Many Agent Orange victims face countless difficulties due to their health damage. With me, the message of today's program is to cherish peace, love, share, and help each other.
Originally published by Thanh Niรชn in Vietnamese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.