Gerald Ford's Call for America's Moral Duty to Refugees

Half a century ago, as the fall of Saigon marked the conclusion of U.S. military involvement in Southeast Asia, President Gerald Ford had to make a decision. Numerous anti-communist South Vietnamese were concerned about potential resettlement and political repression back home, seeking asylum in the United States instead. However, this idea sparked intense debate among Americans regarding their willingness to take in so many immigrants. According to Leslie Stahl’s reports, correspondence sent to Congress expressed significant hostility towards accepting these individuals; notably, a message from someone in Nebraska stated, “They only introduce illness, moral decay, and disinterest.”

The U.S. unemployment rate stood at almost 9 percent, reaching a peak since World War II. Many believed that importing impoverished Vietnamese citizens to America appeared illogical.

However, President Ford viewed the matter through a clear ethical lens: “We owe a significant moral duty to tens of thousands of additional South Vietnamese intellectuals such as professors, educators, journalists, and influential thinkers who have backed both the South Vietnamese efforts and our partnership,” he stated. Ford mandated multiple air evacuations aimed at rescuing 130,000 South Vietnamese refugees and those seeking asylum. Additionally, he enacted legislation providing for their resettlement along with economic support.

He gathered together a group made up of various religious organizations, Southern Democratic governors, and labor leaders to ensure they had access to housing and jobs.

Initially, numerous newcomers depended on public support and worked in low-wage positions. However, over time, the majority found stable employment, reducing their dependence on governmental help. These individuals evolved into entrepreneurs and key members of society—making both significant and minor contributions to the fabric of America. Notable among them include federal judges, a writer who won the Pulitzer Prize, and yes, an Academy Award–winning actor.

“My journey began on a boat,” shared Ke Huy Quan, who stars in “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” “It took me a year in a refugee camp before I found myself standing centerstage amidst Hollywood’s grandest events.” Welcoming these refugees wasn’t merely an ethical choice for Ford—it was strategic. Recognizing that America thrives as a land of immigrants largely because of its rich tapestry of cultures, he understood that diversity fuels national strength. This act showcased his compassionate leadership, remarkable bravery, and unwavering integrity—qualities desperately needed among our current leaders.

For more info:

• Presidential historian Douglas Brinkley

Story produced by Robert Marston. Editor: Lauren Barnello.

See also:

• Remembering the fall of Saigon ("Sunday Morning")
• Enduring the agonizing nightmare of the Hanoi Hilton ("Sunday Morning")
• The vocalist who voiced her opinions directly to Richard Nixon ("Sunday Morning")
• The unlikely real-life tale behind "The Greatest Beer Run Ever" ("Sunday Morning")
• An epic poem about war penned by a Vietnam veteran ("Sunday Morning")
• A deeply heartfelt "thanks for all you've done." ("Sunday Morning")
• Mark Bowden regarding the Vietnam War as "a tragic and futile loss." ("Sunday Morning")
• The lost platoon: Aftermath ("Sunday Morning")
• How a tagged-and-bagged soldier was rescued from death ("Sunday Morning")
• The young lady in the image ("Sunday Morning")
• Vietnamese orphans seek their origins. ("Sunday Morning")
• Rethinking the Legacy of LBJ ("Sunday Morning")