[Open Space] where the public sets the agenda
The lives of Britain's 17,000Ã Vietnamese-born refugees no longer attract intense media interest. The familiar image of war-weary and storm-tossed 'Boat People' has faded, but the problems facing these same people today are even more complex than when they first arrived five years ago.
'I don't know what to do. On the one hand I think we have to preserve our culture, on the other hand we must try to catch up with the kind of culture around us in order to normalise our lives.' (Phong Quoc Luong, Senior House Parent, Save the Children Fund Home)
'The English way of life has destroyed all family feelings - the warmth is lost. I regret the loss of love. Life is plentiful but there is something missing.' (Mrs Hoa, grandmother)
'I can't say that I'm English or Vietnamese. I don't think it matters. Each way of life has many good things and many bad things. We must make the choice individually.' (Le Hanh Phouc Minh, medical student)
Made by members of the British Vietnamese community with the help of the Community Programme Unit
