Los Angeles County originally proposed April 30 as “Jane Fonda Day” to honor the actress’s climate activism, but faced backlash from Vietnamese Americans and state lawmakers. This date coincides with the Fall of Saigon, a painful memory for many in the Vietnamese refugee community, as it marks the end of the Vietnam War. Critics pointed out that Fonda’s controversial trip to North Vietnam in 1972, where she was photographed sitting on an anti-aircraft gun, made her an inappropriate choice for a day linked to this historic event. Republican Assemblyman Tri Ta and Sen. Janet Nguyen were among those who objected to the initial date, citing Fonda’s pro-communist activism during the war as a source of pain and hurt for Vietnamese refugees.
In response to these concerns, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted to move “Jane Fonda Day” to April 8, starting in 2025. This decision was made in acknowledgment of the significance of the original date and the impact it had on the Vietnamese community. By rescheduling the day to a date that does not carry the same historical weight, the Board hoped to show respect for the voices that spoke out against the initial choice. The joint motion by Supervisor Lindsey Horvath and others noted the importance of listening to the community’s feedback and adjusting the celebration accordingly to ensure that it honors Fonda without causing further pain to those affected by the Vietnam War.
The controversy over the proposed date for “Jane Fonda Day” reflects the ongoing tensions surrounding the legacy of the Vietnam War and the actions of those involved. Fonda’s trip to North Vietnam, where she made statements that were perceived as supportive of the communist regime, continues to be a point of contention and division for many. The decision to honor her for her climate activism, while well-intentioned, inadvertently reopened wounds for the Vietnamese American community. Moving the celebration to a different date was seen as a compromise that respects both Fonda’s advocacy work and the sensitivities of those impacted by the war.
The debate over “Jane Fonda Day” underscores the importance of considering historical context and community perspectives when recognizing public figures. While Fonda’s contributions to environmental causes are noteworthy, her actions during the Vietnam War era remain a source of controversy and pain for many. By revising the date of the celebration, Los Angeles County sought to strike a balance between honoring Fonda’s activism and respecting the memories and experiences of those affected by the war. This decision also serves as a reminder of the complexities and sensitivities involved in commemorating individuals whose legacies are intertwined with contentious historical events.
Ultimately, the decision to move “Jane Fonda Day” to April 8 reflects a commitment to inclusivity and community engagement on the part of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. By listening to the concerns raised by Vietnamese Americans and state lawmakers, the Board demonstrated a willingness to adjust their plans in order to be sensitive to the needs and perspectives of all stakeholders. This process of reevaluation and adjustment serves as a model for how public officials can navigate potentially contentious issues and ensure that their actions are respectful and responsive to the diverse voices that make up their communities. In moving forward with a revised date for “Jane Fonda Day,” Los Angeles County has taken a step towards fostering greater understanding and unity within its population, while still honoring the contributions of those who have made a positive impact on society.
