Honoring Vietnamese Boat People: A Journey of Legacy and Remembrance
1,000 kilometers, one step at a time. Follow the journey south. Updates, day-by-day reflections, maps, and personal moments from the walk.
As of 6/6, anh Lễ is in Carpinteria with just 165 miles and 13 days to go – averaging 12-13 miles a day to reach the finish line. He’s in good health, high spirits… and growing a pretty wild mustache along the way!
Huge thanks to everyone who donated — via GoFundMe, we’ve raised $3,320 out of $5,000! Just $1,680 to go, mainly to cover lodging, with campsites/motels estimated around $2,000 by 6/11.
Let’s cheer him on as he powers through this home stretch!
Today marks a major milestone — Anh Lễ has completed 21 days of his epic 50-day hiking adventure, reaching nearly half of his 1000km goal! His dedication, perseverance, and spirit are truly inspiring. To date, a consistent group of supporters has hiked with him multiple times, slightly over 100 participations in total, exemplifying outstanding support and teamwork. We look forward to honoring his remarkable achievement with a memorable celebration!
On April 30, 2025, marking the 50th anniversary of the Fall of Saigon, Vietnamese refugee Lâm An Lễ embarked on a poignant journey: a 50-day, 1,000-kilometer walk from San Jose to Little Saigon in Orange County. His trek serves as a personal tribute to the resilience of the Vietnamese diaspora and a reflection on five decades of displacement and rebuilding. As he traverses California, Lễ’s journey resonates with many in the Vietnamese American community, honoring the sacrifices of those who fled their homeland and the enduring spirit that has shaped their lives in the United States.
Source: Người Việt Newspaper
The countdown has begun. In just a few weeks, I’ll be setting off on a 1000km hike — a journey that will test endurance, patience, and resilience. Preparing for something this big isn’t just about the miles; it’s about building the mindset to face each day’s challenges, one step at a time.
A journey this long isn’t a sprint — it’s about steady persistence.
This is the start of a long journey — and I can’t wait to share it with you, step by step.