August 19, 2002

The Honorable John Kerry

Chairman, Senate Sub-Committee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs

United States Senate

304 Russell Building

Washington, DC 20510

Re: HR-2833, Human Rights For Vietnam.

Dear Senator Kerry:

As the state Senator for California’s 34^th Senate District, representing the largest community of Vietnamese descendants outside of Vietnam, I support the Vietnam Human Rights Act (HR-2833) and urge that it be brought to the Senate floor for debate and a vote.

The Vietnam Human Rights Act provides safeguards needed to ensure freedom, democracy and human rights for Vietnamese people while the United States and Vietnam enjoy the benefits afforded by the Bi-Lateral Trade Agreement. Our Vietnamese brothers and sisters in Orange County and throughout the world need to know that we proudly stand in solidarity with them. When the Communist government of Vietnam assaults human rights, they also attack the great democratic principles that built our nation.

Thank you for your consideration.

Very truly yours,

JOSEPH L. DUNN

Senator, 34^TH District

JLD/cn

cc: The Honorable Tom Daschle, Senate Majority Leader

The Honorable Dianne Feinstein

The Honorable Barbara Boxer