Culture

Vol. 2 • Issue 5

Asian Culture Brief: Vietnam

A collaborative project between NTAC-AAPI and the Center for International Rehabilitation Research Information and Exchange (CIRRIE) at the State University of New York at Buffalo Prepared by Marsha E. Shapiro, based on the original monograph

National Technical Assistance Center www.ntac.hawaii.edu Tel: (808)956-3648 Fax: (808)956-5713 Tty: (808)956-2890 Mission: To increase employment opportunities for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders with disabilities nationwide. Based at: University of Hawaii at Manoa, Center on Disability Studies In collaboration with: Hawaii Centers for Independent Living Hawaii Vocational Rehabilitation and Services for the Blind Division Funded by: U.S. Department of Education Rehabilitation Services Administration

The purpose of this brief, developed as part of a series of Asia and Pacific Island culture briefs, is to present readers with a quick overview of the Vietnam culture and to introduce references that will provide more in-depth perspectives. It is adapted from: Hunt, P. C. (2002). An Introduction to Vietnamese Culture for Rehabilitation Service Providers in the U.S. Buffalo, NY: Center for International Rehabilitation Research Information and Exchange (CIRRIE).

Introduction

To many Americans, the word “Vietnam” conjures images of the devastating war that took place in remote villages of Southeast Asia some 30 years ago. The media portrayal of Vietnam suggested it was made up of only scattered thatchedhut villages amidst the burning fire of jungle warfare. Few Americans, especially those in the post-Vietnam War generation, are aware of the rich culture and history of Vietnam. The aim of this monograph is to provide rehabilitation providers in the U.S. with basic information on Vietnamʼs culture, people and disability issues so they can better serve Vietnamese with disabilities in the U.S.

Cultural Values

Vietnamese cultural values emphasize the importance of family...