Southeast Asian Shrine Planned in Des Moines to Honor Refugee Legacy
The Iowa Asian Alliance has announced plans to build a spirit house in Des Moines to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Southeast Asian families resettling in the state following the Vietnam War. The project, named LegaSEA 50, will honor the legacy of the late Gov. Robert D. Ray, whose efforts were instrumental in welcoming refugees to Iowa.
A Place of Remembrance and Celebration
The spirit house, a shrine common in countries like Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand, will be located at the corner of Robert D. Ray Drive and Grand Avenue, across from the Brenton Skating Plaza. According to Nu Huynh, executive director of the Iowa Asian Alliance, the location is intended to be a visual reminder of the sacrifices made by refugees who came to Iowa to build new lives. The spirit house will serve as a place to honor loved ones and reflect on the community's journey.
Planting a Living Legacy
In addition to the spirit house, the Iowa Asian Alliance plans to plant 50 trees to mark the 50th anniversary of the resettlement. Ten families from each of Iowa's Cambodian, Hmong, Laos, Vietnamese, and Tai Dam communities will participate in the planting. Huynh described the project as "a living legacy," envisioning a canopy of trees symbolizing the deep roots these communities have established in Iowa.
Emotional Testimonials and Community Support
The unveiling of the LegaSEA 50 project was an emotional event, with attendees sharing their personal stories of resettlement. Vickie Ches of Oskaloosa recounted picking up her niece's family, Cambodian refugees, from the airport in 1980. Mayor Connie Boesen also paid tribute to Gov. Ray's legacy of compassion, while Toney Chem expressed his excitement for the project's potential to create a space of beauty and reflection for future generations.
Looking Ahead
The exact location for the tree planting is still being determined, with one option being near the state Capitol. The LegaSEA 50 project represents a significant step in honoring the contributions of Southeast Asian communities to Iowa's cultural landscape and remembering the legacy of Gov. Robert D. Ray. The spirit house and tree planting will serve as lasting symbols of resilience, unity, and the welcoming spirit of Iowa.
