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Grave Desecrations

December 9, 2008 Reception Honoring Professor James Anaya Visit to Minnesota

Professor James Anaya, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people, was welcomed to the Twin Cities at a reception at the University of Minnesota featuring elected officials, Hmong community leaders and human rights advocates. Mayor Chris Coleman welcomed the UN expert to the community, noting that the suffering in the Hmong community, and especially for the City’s newest immigrants from Wat Tham Krabok, had led him and the St. Paul City Council to take various steps to try to resolve the crisis. Other public officials speaking at the event included Minnesota State Representative Cy Thao, Northfield Commissioner of Human Rights, Judy Dirks. Singer-songwriters Tou SaiKo Lee and Logan Moua of The New Sky Development provided entertainment.

Below are remarks given at the event:

Mayor Christopher Coleman (PDF)

City of Northfield Human Rights Commissioner Judy Dirks (PDF)

Photos

Family and witnesses pose with U.N. Special Rapporteur James Anaya

Victim family members and witnesses at the U.N. Hearing on the desecration of Hmong graves pose with U.N. Special Rapporteur James Anaya during welcoming reception at the University of Minnesota on December 9, 2008. L-R: Chue Thao, Lee Thao, Lee Yang, Professor James Anaya, Kao Xiong, Pa Ze Xiong, and Soua Dao Thao. Not pictured is Lia Thao.