Gov. Robert Ray and a modern-day love story star in new documentary about Tai Dam refugees

A new documentary tells the story of one decision by an Iowa governor to open his heart and the state for refugees, which ultimately led to a modern-day love story for his grandchild.

"Refugees Welcome" is the story of then-Iowa Gov. Robert Ray's push for Iowa to accept Tai Dam refugees, an ethnic minority fleeing from persecution in their homelands of Vietnam and Laos. Little did Ray know that decades later, his grandson would fall in love with the daughter of the same Tai Dam refugees he welcomed to Iowa.

Producer Laura Ling said she hopes viewers find a sense of common humanity in the documentary and see beyond the differences argued about today.

"We found that there's such a rich story here, one of really important history," said, Ling, who also serves as vice president of programming for Very Local, the streaming platform behind the documentary. "But also the lessons we can learn from it through a modern-day lens."

What is the 'Refugees Welcome' documentary about?

The documentary follows a Tai Dam refugee family, the Vongs, who fled to Iowa to avoid persecution. Before coming to Iowa, the Tai Dam fled from Vietnam and Laos after the countries fell to communism in 1975.

Much of the federal government was reluctant to allow the Tai Dam refugees to resettle in America. But Ray, a Republican and Iowa's 38th governor, advocated for lawmakers to welcome the Tai Dam into America and offered Iowa as their home regardless of the resentment toward Asian refugees.

Ling spent her career in journalism reporting on human rights. So when she heard about the struggles and challenges faced by the Tai Dam refugees she knew she found another important story to tell.

As a proud Asian-American, Ling hadn't known about the Tai Dam's experience until she visited Des Moines. Ling was not only invested in telling the story of the Southeast Asian minority group but also in Ray's decision to aid them.

"I was so struck by his leadership and his gesture and action of humanity," Ling said.

'Refugees Welcome' shares Tai Dam community's historic story with a modern-day twist

The story continues today through Jasmine and Jeffrey Newland. The two met in high school and became college sweethearts. After dating for some time, the couple discovered they were descendants of a nearly five-decade-long partnership. They got married in August 2023 after Ray died in 2018.

Jasmine Newland is the daughter of Tai Dam refugees, the Vongs, while Jeffrey Newland is Ray's grandson. Without the governor's efforts to welcome the Tai Dam to Iowa, the two might not have met. Now they feel fortunate to be able to share their family's story.

"We're both just excited to carry on these traditions moving forward," Jeffrey Newland said. "You know, complete opposite parts of the world that have become intertwined and we still want to cherish those values that our elders have created. And make sure our new development is aware of the history."

The Newlands recently welcomed the birth of their first son William Newland. The couple is excited to pass down their family history to him.

While many locals may know the Newlands' love story, Ling hopes the story intrigues viewers outside of Des Moines to learn more about the Tai Dam.

"Two people whose relationship might not have happened if it weren't for the actions of Gov. Ray," Ling said. "We also wanted to shine a spotlight on the refugee experience and the struggles involved."

Even though the documentary features the Newlands' wedding and personal story, Jasmine Newland said the biggest thing she hopes people take away from the documentary is the story of the Tai Dam people, which is now one of hope.

"It was a pretty dark time a couple of decades ago," Jeffrey Newland said. "They were not Iowans, but they became Iowans just because a door was open and an opportunity was given. My grandfather always instructed me to no matter who they are, give people your undivided attention and show respect."

How to watch the 'Refugees Welcome' documentary about Iowa's Tai Dam community

The documentary is coming out during Asian American Pacific Islander Month in honor of the Tai Dam's story.

The "Refugees Welcome" premiered May 8 on the Very Local app. The app is available on all mobile and connected TV devices.

Very Local is owned by Hearst, the parent company of KCCI-TV.

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Tai Dam refugees path to Iowa shown in 'Refugee Welcome' documentary