Viet History Museum Reopens Just in Time for Lunar New Year
Mayor Mahan, alongside the Vietnamese community and Councilemember Bien Doan, successfully advocated for the reopening of the beloved cultural center
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 29, 2025
Media Contact:
Tasha Dean, Chief Communications Officer, Office of Mayor Matt Mahan; [email protected]
SAN JOSÉ, CA - Today, the Viet Museum located at History Park in San José reopened its doors for the first time since December 23rd. The museum will be reopened temporarily starting today, January 29th, from 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. and Thursday, January 30th, through Sunday, February 2nd, from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
“Tết is a time for a fresh start,” said San José Mayor Matt Mahan. “So there is no better moment for us to reopen our beloved museum and celebrate a new beginning for the 147 year old building. I am grateful to my staff and the community who worked together to find a creative solution and reopen the museum.”
The Viet Museum was founded in 2007 to preserve a collection of artifacts, documents, and books that document the experiences of Vietnamese refugees and the former Republic of Vietnam. These items, donated by individuals from around the world, serve as a testament to the resilience of those who fled after the fall of South Vietnam in April 1975. Located in the Greenwalt House at History Park at Kelley Park, The Viet History Museum is one of many cultural centers that celebrate the many diverse communities which make up San José’s population.
“When I ran for office, I pledged to represent the needs of the Vietnamese community on our City Council,” said Councilmember Bien Doan. “And working with the Mayor over the last several weeks to secure this win just in time for our most sacred holiday is an example of how I work every day to fulfill that pledge. I am grateful to spend time with the community over the next few days at the Viet museum, which has always been a place to celebrate our history and bring us together to imagine a better future.”
Mayor Mahan’s office will pay upfront costs for the temporary re-opening until a more permanent solution can be determined. Mayor Mahan, alongside the Vietnamese community of San José and Councilmember Bien Doan will continue to advocate for the permanent re-opening of the museum.
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