Tag: Kentucky

Community Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS

Vietnamese Born and American Made: Celebrating the Kentucky Science Center and the Tran Family

Post author By Di Tran
Post date May 25, 2024

In the heart of Louisville, KY, the Kentucky Science Center stands as a beacon of knowledge, inclusivity, and community. As an institution dedicated to exploring the intersection of health and humanity, the Science Center continually fosters environments where differences are celebrated and every story is honored. This spirit of inclusivity is exemplified in their latest exhibit, “Uniquely Human,” which delves into the assumptions, biases, and perspectives that shape our self-perception and community interactions.

One of the most touching features of the “Uniquely Human” exhibit is the inclusion of items from the Tran family, a testament to the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture and the powerful story of a family that has embraced both their heritage and their American identity. Di Tran, a proud Vietnamese immigrant, and his family have become shining examples of love, care, and inclusivity in Louisville.

Di Tran’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a deep commitment to community. His books, “Drop the Me and Focus on the Others” and “Embrace the Healing Power of Beauty Services,” are featured in the exhibit, providing insights into his philosophy of selflessness and community service. These works encourage readers to look beyond themselves and contribute to the greater good, aligning perfectly with the mission of the Kentucky Science Center.

However, what makes this exhibit even more special are the personal items on display that tell a deeper story. The embroidered black áo dài and the conical hat (nón lá) showcased were worn by Di Tran’s mother at his wedding. This áo dài nhung, adorned with intricate decorations, represents not only the elegance of Vietnamese tradition but also the love and pride of a mother celebrating a significant milestone in her son’s life. The inclusion of these items highlights the Tran family’s journey and the blending of their Vietnamese heritage with their American experiences.

Di Tran often says, “Vietnamese Born and American Made,” a phrase that captures the essence of his family’s journey. They are proud of their roots and equally proud of the lives they have built in the United States. The Tran family embodies the spirit of resilience and the warmth of community, values that resonate deeply within the walls of the Kentucky Science Center.

As community partners with the Science Center, Di Tran and his children are honored to celebrate the beauty of Kentucky and Louisville in the most inclusive and welcoming way possible. The Tran family’s involvement with the exhibit is not just a celebration of Vietnamese culture but a tribute to the love and unity that define their lives.

The Kentucky Science Center’s commitment to creating a space where all voices and traditions can be appreciated and respected is commendable. Their “Uniquely Human” exhibit is a profound reminder of the power of empathy and understanding. By showcasing the Tran family’s story, the Science Center emphasizes that our differences can bring us together and that each unique journey adds to the rich tapestry of our community.

We invite all families to visit the Kentucky Science Center and explore the “Uniquely Human” exhibit. It is a place of love, inclusion, and celebration of diversity. Come and discover the beauty of our collective stories and traditions, and learn how our assumptions and biases shape our perceptions and interactions.

Join us in honoring the Kentucky Science Center for their leadership and dedication to inclusivity, and in celebrating Di Tran and his family for their loving and inclusive spirit that enriches the Louisville community. Together, we can continue to build a community where every voice is heard, and every tradition is cherished.

Visit the Kentucky Science Center today and be part of this extraordinary journey. Let’s learn, explore, and grow together in a place that welcomes everyone with open arms.

KentuckyScienceCenter #UniquelyHuman #VietnameseBornAmericanMade #CommunityCelebration #InclusiveCommunity #LouisvilleKY #CelebrateDiversity #FamilyHeritage #VisitLouisville #LoveAndUnity

Ley del Senado 14: Una Legislación Histórica Liderada por la Comunidad Asiática, Beneficiando a Todos los Inmigrantes, Especialmente a la Comunidad Latina en la Industria de la Belleza

Post author By Di Tran
Post date March 30, 2024

El 29 de marzo de 2024, el gobernador de Kentucky, Andy Beshear, firmó la Ley del Senado 14, marcando un hito significativo en la historia legislativa del estado. Impulsada por la comunidad asiática, esta legislación innovadora tiene como objetivo traer cambios transformadores a la industria de la belleza, con un énfasis especial en beneficiar a todos los inmigrantes, particularmente a la comunidad latina, que ahora representa una parte significativa de la población inmigrante en Kentucky.

Disposiciones Clave de la Ley del Senado 14

1.  Ampliación de la Representación en la Junta: La Junta de Cosmetología de Kentucky ahora incluirá un técnico en uñas con licencia y un miembro adicional del público en general, asegurando una representación más amplia y defensa de las diversas necesidades de la industria de la belleza.
2.  Accesibilidad Lingüística: Para atender las diversas necesidades lingüísticas de la población inmigrante, los exámenes escritos para la licencia estarán disponibles en el primer o segundo idioma en el que el solicitante sea más fluido, con intérpretes certificados proporcionados para los exámenes orales. Esto es particularmente beneficioso para la comunidad latina, muchos de los cuales pueden ser más competentes en español que en inglés.
3.  Flexibilidad en la Repetición de Exámenes: La ley permite a los solicitantes que no aprueben alguna parte del examen de licencia volver a tomar la parte reprobada un mes después de recibir la notificación de reprobación, sin límite en el número de repeticiones. Esto proporciona una oportunidad justa para todos los candidatos, incluidos aquellos de orígenes inmigrantes, para obtener la licencia profesional.
4.  Remediación de Violaciones: Se introduce un enfoque más compasivo para la aplicación de la regulación, donde se emite una notificación de advertencia para las violaciones, excepto en los casos que presenten un peligro inmediato. Esto asegura que los negocios, muchos de los cuales son propiedad de inmigrantes, tengan la oportunidad de rectificar problemas sin enfrentar sanciones inmediatas.

El Impacto en la Comunidad Latina

Aunque la Ley del Senado 14 fue liderada por los esfuerzos de la comunidad asiática, sus disposiciones están destinadas a beneficiar a toda la población inmigrante en la industria de la belleza, con un impacto particular en la comunidad latina. Al eliminar las barreras del idioma y proporcionar procedimientos de prueba y regulación más flexibles, la ley abre nuevas oportunidades para que los individuos latinos ingresen y prosperen en la industria de la belleza. Esto no solo empodera a la comunidad latina, sino que también enriquece la industria con diversos talentos y perspectivas.

En conclusión, la Ley del Senado 14 se erige como un testimonio del poder de los esfuerzos colaborativos entre comunidades para promulgar cambios positivos. Aunque liderada por la comunidad asiática, la legislación allana el camino para una industria de la belleza más inclusiva y equitativa, donde los inmigrantes, particularmente aquellos de la comunidad latina, pueden encontrar mayores oportunidades de éxito y crecimiento profesional.

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/24rs/sb14.html#SFA1

Uncategorized

Celebrating Unity and Progress: The JFCS MOSAIC Awards Honoree Luncheon

Post author By Di Tran
Post date February 28, 2024

JFCS MOSAIC Awards Honoree - Di Tran

Today, Louisville is abuzz with anticipation as the Jewish Family & Career Services (JFCS) hosts the MOSAIC Awards Honoree Luncheon. This prestigious event is more than just a ceremony; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with stories of resilience, diversity, and community service. Among the honorees is Di Tran, a testament to the spirit of determination and entrepreneurship. However, the spotlight shines equally on all the remarkable individuals who have come together to celebrate their shared commitment to workforce development and community enrichment.

The MOSAIC Awards are a tribute to those who have left behind their familiar surroundings, high-ranking positions, or humble beginnings in their countries of origin to start anew in the United States. Each honoree’s journey is unique, yet they all share a common thread: a relentless pursuit of self-improvement and societal contribution. They have embraced workforce development not only as a means of personal growth but as a way to add value to the society that has welcomed them with open arms.

The luncheon is a melting pot of cultures, with honorees hailing from diverse backgrounds such as Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Bosnia, Mexico, Cuba, Somalia, Guatemala and more. Despite their varied origins, they all share a dedication to uplifting the immigrant community and integrating them into the workforce. Many of these individuals have achieved high levels of education in the U.S., while others have transitioned from having limited English proficiency to becoming successful entrepreneurs and professionals.

The MOSAIC Awards symbolize love, family, inspiration, and inclusivity. They celebrate the hard-earned successes of those who have faced and overcome significant challenges. The stories shared at the luncheon are a powerful reminder that adversity can be transformed into opportunity, and that diversity is a strength that propels Louisville and the state of Kentucky forward.

As the honorees share their experiences and aspirations, the room is filled with a sense of unity and purpose. Each individual, in their own way, is contributing to the fabric of the community, pulling others along with them to achieve greatness. The MOSAIC Awards Honoree Luncheon is not just an event; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of hope, resilience, and collective progress that defines the city of Louisville and its vibrant immigrant community.

Di Tran himself shared, “I am among the great of all honorees here and felt small in contribution to the Louisville city and Kentucky State, and I am learning hard to accelerate my rate of contribution like all of you here in the room.” His eagerness to learn and contribute further highlight the essence of the MOSAIC Awards – a celebration of individuals who are not only achieving personal success but are also dedicated to uplifting those around them.

MOSAIC Award Recipient – Di Tran

MOSAIC Awards

Unity and Purpose: Di Tran’s Inspiring Encounter with Rip Hatfield at Kentucky’s JusticeFest

Post author By Di Tran
Post date February 24, 2024

On a crisp February afternoon in Louisville, Kentucky, a gathering of the city and state’s most compassionate and influential leaders convened for the Kentucky Derby Festival Foundation JusticeFest. Among them was Di Tran, a revered figure in the community, invited for the second time as a judge for this impactful event. As he checked in at 2 pm, badge and booklet in hand, he encountered Rip Hatfield, a former chairman of the festival, for the first time.

What struck Di Tran immediately was the profound level of care and dedication Rip Hatfield exhibited. Despite his esteemed status, Hatfield had been volunteering since 7 am, embodying the spirit of selflessness that Di Tran himself so deeply values. Their conversation quickly turned personal, with Di Tran expressing how programs like JusticeFest uplift individuals from humble beginnings, like himself, a third-world country immigrant who now found himself in esteemed company.

Rip Hatfield, with calmness and humility, shared his own story of growing up in a shared three-bedroom home in Portland during the 1950s, before moving to the Southern end near National Turnpike, not far from where Di Tran’s primary residence on Kingston and 3rd St now stands. Their mutual reflections on the miraculous paths their lives had taken were a testament to their belief in a higher purpose.

At 42, Di Tran sought to understand the meaning and purpose of life, a question he posed to the 80-year-old Hatfield. With serene wisdom, Hatfield responded, “I am still trying to figure that out, but that’s not important. You do the small things you can. I am here today, and I enjoy every moment of it.” This simple yet profound advice resonated with Di Tran, affirming his belief in adding value to the world, one small step at a time.

As they parted ways, Di Tran, inspired and reflective, raced to judge his session, eager to learn more from the diverse voices in the room. The encounter with Rip Hatfield was a reminder of the power of humility, service, and the small yet significant contributions that shape a meaningful life.

Community Immigration

Empowering Women in Louisville: A Dedicated Mission Led by Gretchen Hunt and Supported by Di Tran

Post author By Di Tran
Post date February 13, 2024

In Louisville, Kentucky, a compelling initiative is transforming the landscape of gender equity and empowerment, led by the passionate efforts of Gretchen Hunt, the Director of the Office for Women. Gretchen’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the status of women through education, advocacy, and legislation has significantly propelled the cause of gender equality forward. Her advocacy, deeply rooted in a passion for social justice, plays a crucial role in catalyzing positive change within the community.

Gretchen’s influence extends beyond her role at the Office for Women. As a founding member of La Casita Center and a board member of the Governors Scholars Program and Mothers Esquire, she actively contributes to various facets of community development and empowerment. Her academic background, with a bachelor’s and juris doctorate from Boston College, underpins her expertise and dedication to the cause. Outside of her professional pursuits, Gretchen enjoys travel, thrifting, paddleboarding, hiking, and nature, sharing these passions with her husband and two children.

The initiative also gains strength from Di Tran, the force behind the Louisville Beauty Academy and Louisville Beauty Academy at Harbor House. As a Kentucky State-Licensed and State-Accredited Licensing Beauty College, Di’s academy is a testament to the power of dedicated education in empowering individuals, especially women. With over 1,000 graduates, predominantly women, flourishing in their careers or running their own businesses, the academy demonstrates the significant impact of education on women’s empowerment.

The academy serves as a beacon of excellence in beauty education, fostering a community that uplifts a diverse group of students – women of color, immigrants, mothers, entrepreneurs, and caretakers. This mission aligns seamlessly with the goals of the Office for Women, celebrated and supported by Gretchen Hunt’s leadership. Together, they work towards creating a stronger, more inclusive, and supportive environment for all women in Louisville.

This partnership underscores the importance of working together to prevent domestic violence and human trafficking, highlighting the collective effort needed to tackle these critical issues. The shared vision of Gretchen Hunt and Di Tran exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving societal change, emphasizing that when women are provided with equal opportunities and their achievements are recognized, the entire community benefits.

As Louisville leads the way in gender equity, the contributions of Gretchen Hunt and Di Tran serve as an inspiration for cities everywhere. Their combined efforts are a beacon of progress, encouraging us to continue the vital work of empowering women and advancing gender equity for the betterment of our society.

#EmpowermentInAction #CelebratingWomen #FrontAndCenter #WomenLead

Community Corporation

Understanding Minimum Wage in the United States: A Comprehensive Overview

Post author By Di Tran
Post date November 29, 2023

In the complex landscape of the U.S. economy, minimum wage laws play a pivotal role in defining the baseline earnings for workers. The federal minimum wage, established under the Fair Labor Standards Act, currently stands at $7.25 per hour, a rate unchanged since July 24, 2009. This federal standard sets the minimum threshold nationwide, but it’s just the beginning of the story.

Each state in the U.S. has the authority to set its own minimum wage rates, and many have chosen to exceed the federal baseline, responding to varying local economic conditions and living costs. This has resulted in a diverse tapestry of minimum wage standards across the country, reflecting the unique economic landscapes of each state.

State-by-State Breakdown of Minimum Wage in 2023:

Alabama: $7.25 (Federal, no state minimum)
Alaska: $10.85
Arizona: $13.85
Arkansas: $11.00
California: $15.50
Colorado: $13.65
Connecticut: $14.00, increasing to $15.00 on June 1, 2023
Delaware: $11.75
Florida: $11.00, increasing to $12.00 on Sept 30, 2023
Georgia: $7.25 (Federal, as state minimum is $5.15)
Hawaii: $12.00
Idaho: $7.25
Illinois: $13.00
Indiana: $7.25
Iowa: $7.25
Kansas: $7.25
Kentucky: $7.25
Louisiana: $7.25 (Federal, no state minimum)
Maine: $13.80
Maryland: $13.25
Massachusetts: $15.00
Michigan: $10.10
Minnesota: $10.59 (large employers) / $8.63 (small employers)
Mississippi: $7.25 (Federal, no state minimum)
Missouri: $12.00
Montana: $9.95
Nebraska: $10.50
Nevada: $10.50 ($9.50 if health insurance is provided)
New Hampshire: $7.25
New Jersey: $14.13
New Mexico: $12.00
New York: $14.20
North Carolina: $7.25
North Dakota: $7.25
Ohio: $10.10 ($7.25 for smaller employers)
Oklahoma: $7.25
Oregon: $13.50, increasing to $14.20 on July 1, 2023
Pennsylvania: $7.25
Rhode Island: $13.00
South Carolina: $7.25 (Federal, no state minimum)
South Dakota: $10.80
Tennessee: $7.25 (Federal, no state minimum)
Texas: $7.25
Utah: $7.25
Vermont: $13.18
Virginia: $12.00
Washington: $15.74
West Virginia: $8.75
Wisconsin: $7.25
Wyoming: $7.25 (Federal, as state minimum is $5.15)
Washington, D.C.: $16.50, increasing to $17.00 on July 1, 2023

This state-specific approach to minimum wage allows for a more tailored response to the cost of living and economic conditions within each state. However, it also introduces a level of complexity for businesses operating across state lines and for workers understanding their rights and entitlements.

As the debate around living wage versus minimum wage continues, these figures are more than mere numbers; they represent a fundamental aspect of the economic and social fabric of the United States. The interplay between federal and state standards on minimum wage is a dynamic and evolving issue, reflecting ongoing discussions about fair compensation, living standards, and economic policy.

Community Leadership Development Small Businesses Workforce Development

GLI and Di Tran: Pioneering Inclusive Growth in Louisville’s Business Landscape

Post author By Di Tran
Post date September 18, 2023

In the business corridors of Louisville, Greater Louisville Inc (GLI) stands as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity. This Chamber of Commerce, with its unwavering commitment to promoting an inclusive economic ecosystem, has caught the attention of many, including the dynamic Di Tran, president of the New American Business Association Inc.

GLI: Leading by Example

GLI has long been a pillar of support for businesses in Louisville and beyond. Their endeavors range from offering business support services to ensuring fairness in business growth, with a vision always leaning towards inclusivity and fairness. It’s this commitment that has positioned GLI as not just an organization but as a catalyst for change in Kentucky’s business community.

Di Tran: A Synergy of Vision and Passion

Di Tran’s association with GLI is more than just participatory; it’s symbiotic. As a Vietnamese immigrant who faced the challenges of establishing a business in a foreign land, Di recognizes the value of platforms like GLI. Their support for businesses, big and small, and their dedication to fostering growth is what drew Di closer to GLI’s mission.

With a personal story marked by resilience and ambition, Di, who now helms a series of successful Asian-owned businesses, sees GLI’s vision and his personal mission aligning seamlessly. He not only appreciates GLI’s contributions but also collaborates actively with its Education and Workforce Development Committee.

The 10% Advocacy: A Shared Dream

The mutual respect between GLI and Di Tran becomes even more evident in their shared objectives. Di’s advocacy, ensuring a 10% representation of immigrants, especially those grappling with English as a second language, echoes GLI’s broader inclusive goals. It’s not just about representing a minority; it’s about amplifying the voices that often remain unheard.

GLI, with its steadfast commitment to diversity, finds in Di Tran an ally who embodies the very essence of their vision. Together, they’re not just addressing an oversight but pioneering an inclusive economic transformation in Louisville.

Crafting a Collaborative Future

The alliance between Di Tran and GLI underscores the transformative power of collaboration. By bringing to the fore the unique challenges and contributions of immigrant entrepreneurs, they’re paving the way for a Louisville where every business voice, regardless of its origin, is valued.

Elevating GLI’s mission through real-life examples like Di Tran’s journey offers a testament to their overarching goal: a business ecosystem that’s diverse, inclusive, and thriving. With GLI’s visionary approach and Di Tran’s fervent advocacy, Louisville is set on a trajectory of not just economic growth but inclusive prosperity.

Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Immigration Leadership Development Self-Improve Small Businesses Workforce Development

Celebrando el Arte, la Diversidad y el Espíritu Emprendedor: Un Enfoque en la Conexión de Di Tran con el Artista Cubano Humberto Lahera

Post author By Di Tran
Post date July 15, 2023

El 14 de julio de 2023, Louisville, Kentucky se llenó de vida con una rica muestra de unidad multicultural, arte y espíritu emprendedor durante la reunión de exalumnos de la Welcome Academy. El evento, organizado por Crane House of Louisville y patrocinado por la Oficina de Asuntos de Inmigrantes de Metro de Louisville, reunió a inmigrantes de todo el mundo, incluyendo India, Cuba, México, Filipinas, Somalia y otras naciones.

Di Tran, una figura influyente en la comunidad y un defensor del espíritu emprendedor entre los inmigrantes, asistió al evento. Tran, aunque no es artista, tiene un profundo aprecio por el arte y los artistas que lo crean. Este aprecio fue especialmente palpable en su interacción con Humberto Lahera, un artista cubano reconocido por su meticuloso trabajo fotorrealista.

Humberto Lahera es un artista especializado en fotorrealismo y retrato. Graduado de la Academia de Arte de Holguín y la Universidad de las Artes de Cuba, Lahera trae sus interpretaciones meticulosas e íntimas de la naturaleza y la belleza a cada pieza que crea. Su arte y murales no sólo han alegrado las paredes y las vidas de la gente en Cuba, sino que también han cruzado fronteras para enriquecer los espacios públicos y privados en los Estados Unidos.

Aunque la maestría artística de Lahera y los emprendimientos empresariales de Tran parecen mundos aparte, encontraron un terreno común durante la reunión. Tran, que conoce bien los desafíos y recompensas de ser dueño de una pequeña empresa, expresó su deseo de ayudar a los artistas como Lahera a prosperar en su oficio y ganarse la vida con él.

Como líder de la New American Business Association, Tran ayuda a las personas a aprovechar sus talentos y valores únicos para construir pequeñas empresas exitosas. Cree que el arte, como el de Lahera, no sólo debe ser admirado, sino que también debe servir como base para el espíritu emprendedor sostenible. Aboga por la idea de que los artistas empaqueten sus trabajos en acuerdos que se ajusten a una gama de posibles clientes y sus variados presupuestos.

Con el espíritu de fomentar conexiones más vibrantes entre el arte y el espíritu emprendedor, Tran anima a cualquier persona interesada en el trabajo de Lahera a que se ponga en contacto con él directamente en LinkedIn aquí.

Esta colaboración entre Tran y Lahera, entre los negocios y el arte, es un vívido ejemplo de cómo puede florecer la rica diversidad de Louisville, KY. Es un testimonio de la unidad y el espíritu de colaboración que prospera en esta vibrante ciudad, un lugar donde el arte y los negocios van de la mano, y donde la población inmigrante juega un papel crucial en la configuración de su paisaje cultural y económico.

Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Immigration Small Businesses

Celebrating Art, Diversity, and Entrepreneurship: A Spotlight on Di Tran’s Connection with Cuban Artist Humberto Lahera

Post author By Di Tran
Post date July 15, 2023

On July 14, 2023, Louisville, Kentucky came alive with a rich display of multicultural unity, artistry, and entrepreneurial spirit during the Welcome Academy Alumni reunion. The event, hosted by Crane House of Louisville and sponsored by Louisville Metro Office of Immigrant Affairs, gathered immigrants from across the globe, including India, Cuba, Mexico, the Philippines, Somalia, and other nations.

Di Tran, an influential figure in the community and an advocate for entrepreneurship among immigrants, attended the event. Tran, though not an artist himself, holds a deep appreciation for art and the artists who create it. This appreciation was especially palpable in his interaction with Humberto Lahera, a Cuban artist renowned for his meticulous, photorealistic work.

Humberto Lahera is an artist specialized in photorealism and portraiture. A graduate of the Art Academy of Holguin and Universidad de las Artes de Cuba, Lahera brings his meticulous, intimate interpretations of nature and beauty to every piece he creates. His artwork and murals have not only brightened the walls and lives of people in Cuba, but they’ve also crossed borders to enrich public and private spaces across the United States.

Though Lahera’s artistry and Tran’s entrepreneurial pursuits seem worlds apart, they found common ground during the reunion. Tran, who is no stranger to the challenges and rewards of small business ownership, expressed his desire to help artists like Lahera thrive in their craft and make a living from it.

As the leader of the New American Business Association, Tran helps individuals leverage their unique talents and values to build successful small businesses. He believes that art, like Lahera’s, shouldn’t merely be admired but should also serve as a foundation for sustainable entrepreneurship. He champions the idea of artists packaging their works into deals that cater to a range of potential customers and their varying budgets.

In the spirit of fostering more vibrant connections between art and entrepreneurship, Tran encourages anyone interested in Lahera’s work to reach out to him directly on LinkedIn here.

This collaboration between Tran and Lahera, between business and art, is a vivid example of how the rich diversity of Louisville, KY can flourish. It stands as a testament to the unity and collaborative spirit that thrives in this vibrant city, a place where art and business walk hand in hand, and where the immigrant population plays a crucial role in shaping its cultural and economic landscape.

Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Early Childhood Education Immigration Information Technology Leadership Development Self-Improve

Di Tran’s Deep Gratitude: The Tri Ân Monument Legacy

Post author By Di Tran
Post date July 6, 2023

Di Tran, a proud board member of Tri Ân and author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS,” stands on the brink of another significant achievement with the imminent release of his new book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH.” As an influential figure within the Vietnamese-American community in Louisville, Kentucky, Tran is an individual of deep-rooted values and indomitable spirit.

On this July 4th weekend, as the United States celebrates its Independence Day, Tran finds himself standing on the site of the nearing completion Tri Ân Monument at Veterans Memorial Park in Jeffersontown, Kentucky. This particular setting seems emblematic of his life’s journey – a testament to freedom, gratitude, and shared heritage.

As Tran describes himself, he is a “version 1.5 immigrant,” born and educated in Vietnam until the age of twelve, after which he migrated to Louisville, KY. Here, he completed his secondary education and went on to earn multiple college degrees, showcasing his relentless dedication to self-improvement and resilience.

For Tran, America stands as the top country on Earth – a beacon of freedom, opportunity, and strength. Being part of the Tri Ân Monument, especially under the leadership of fellow Vietnamese immigrants and revered Vietnam veterans, is an overwhelming experience for him. The presence of esteemed military generals, for whom Tran holds deep respect, elevates the importance of the project for him.

The Tri Ân Monument, with its towering walls, is a palpable representation of Tran’s Vietnam roots. Its stones, twice the height of Tran and sourced directly from Vietnam, symbolize the gratitude he feels towards Vietnam War veterans from both his birth and adopted countries. The phrase “Tri Ân” means “deep gratitude” in Vietnamese, an emotion Tran profoundly resonates with.

This monument, due for completion in October 2023, isn’t merely a physical structure. It’s an enduring generational signature for the Vietnamese community in Louisville, KY, and across the United States. It’s a tribute to America, the nation that has given them so much, and a token of gratitude to the brave soldiers who protected freedom and democracy.

Di Tran hopes that the Tri Ân Monument will also serve as a teaching tool for young Vietnamese-Americans. It is a concrete symbol of their ancestral roots and their present lives, reminding them of the importance of hard work, gratitude, and giving back to the United States. As Tran so often emphasizes, the monument embodies the spirit of dropping fear and focusing on faith.

The Tri Ân Monument and Veterans Memorial Park can be visited at 10707 Taylorsville Rd, Jeffersontown, Kentucky 40299. Its profound message of gratitude and unity reverberates well beyond its physical boundaries, reaching the hearts and minds of those who understand its significance. As it stands, it is a testament to the dreams, struggles, and triumphs of immigrants like Di Tran, who continue to write their remarkable stories in this land of the free.