The Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City has launched a new traveling exhibit titled Our Journeys that chronicles the experiences of Vietnamese refugees who fled Saigon after the war and rebuilt their lives in Oklahoma. Curator Dr. Michaela Wegman says the exhibit is designed to give visitors a visceral sense of the hardships endured, from the perilous boat crossings to the challenges of starting over in a new country.
Personal stories at the heart of the display
One of the exhibit’s focal points is the story of Thuan Nguyen, a Vietnamese refugee who arrived in Oklahoma at age four. Nguyen, who now leads the Vietnamese American Heritage Community of Oklahoma, described the exhibit as “a deeply personal reflection of my journey.” He and his mother are pictured with the single suitcase they carried out of Vietnam, a stark reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom.
“We escaped for freedom, risking our lives not knowing whether we would have a tomorrow,” Nguyen told visitors. He explained the term “boat people,” noting that many fled on fishing vessels, hoping to reach safety.
Artifacts, aromas and interactive learning
The exhibit immerses guests in the era with authentic items, photographs, and even the smells of a Vietnamese kitchen. Panels are presented in both English and Vietnamese, ensuring the stories are accessible to a broad audience. A dedicated children’s section features an interactive map where young visitors can add their own family migration stories, encouraging a shared dialogue about resilience and hope.
Dr. Wegman highlighted a particularly striking anecdote: when Saigon fell, a young woman named Xuan grabbed only a tennis racket before boarding a boat. “It’s an incredible story of resilience and the journeys of people fleeing an oppressive regime,” Wegman said.
Community impact and future programming
Nguyen hopes the exhibit will resonate beyond the Vietnamese community, inviting Oklahomans of all backgrounds to reflect on the universal desire for liberty and a better future. The museum plans to complement the exhibit with documentary screenings and panel discussions throughout its run, which will continue through the New Year.
Local schools have already scheduled field trips, and community groups are encouraged to use the exhibit as a springboard for conversations about immigration, faith, and the importance of family support in overcoming adversity.
Visit the exhibit
The Our Journeys exhibit is open daily at the Oklahoma History Center, located at 800 N. Robinson Ave., Oklahoma City. Admission is free for museum members and discounted for students and seniors. For more information, visit the museum’s website or call the visitor services desk.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
