History, Censorship, and Resilience in Vietnam
Kassaundra Ferm on 6 Jan 2025
As I immerse myself in the vibrant rhythms of life in Vung Tau, a picturesque coastal city just a short drive from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, I find myself captivated by the rich tapestry of conversations that unfold within the warm embrace of the family I’m living with. Their two lively children, aged 2 and 4, inject a delightful energy into the home, filling it with infectious laughter and playful antics that brighten even the most mundane moments.
Amidst the joyful chaos, their father offers me profound insights into Vietnam’s complex history, particularly the far-reaching impacts of the Vietnam War. His words weave a narrative that touches on the lingering scars of this tumultuous past and the current climate of censorship that shapes daily life. These enlightening discussions have sparked a deep curiosity, compelling me to explore the intricate truths surrounding the Vietnam War, the pervasive influence of foreign powers, and the contemporary political landscape characterized by a careful balance of control and expression.
A Tapestry of Lies and Consequences During the Vietnam War
To understand Vietnam today, it's essential to look at the Vietnam War—a conflict filled with lies, power struggles, and deep sorrow. The war indeed escalated in 1965 when the United States sent its first combat troops to South Vietnam. The official reason for this military involvement was to stop the Vietcong, a communist group fighting against the South Vietnamese government that was supported by the U.S. However, as later documents known as the Pentagon Papers revealed, U.S. leaders, including Defense Secretary Robert McNamara, misled the public and Congress about many vital facts—such as the number of casualties, the effectiveness of American strategies, and the real reasons for staying involved in the war.
McNamara, who played a significant role in shaping U.S. policies in Vietnam, painted an optimistic picture of achieving victory. But in reality, Vietnam was suffering greatly. Many innocent civilians were caught in the fighting, trying to escape the destruction caused by U.S. bombings. At the same time, protests against the war were growing, showing a rising frustration both in the U.S. and around the world. The impact of these events is still felt in Vietnam today, shaping its national identity and collective memory.
The reasons behind U.S. involvement in Vietnam were linked to the Cold War belief in the "domino theory," which suggested that if one country fell to communism, others would follow. While the U.S. claimed it was there to protect democracy, it actually supported the corrupt government of Ngo Dinh Diem in South Vietnam. This alliance led to widespread disappointment among the Vietnamese people. The U.S. was more interested in maintaining its regional influence than promoting genuine democracy.
The Legacy of Censorship in Vietnam
Years after the fall of Saigon in 1975, Vietnam still showed signs of war, and the government maintained strict control over information. Through my conversations, I see how this censorship profoundly affects the lives of everyday Vietnamese people. They must tread carefully, as speaking out against the government can lead to serious consequences, including arrest and imprisonment.
In Vietnam, the ruling Communist Party tightly manages the media. Only state-approved organizations can publish news, which limits independent reporting and makes it difficult for different viewpoints to surface on critical national and international topics. Recently, social media platforms like Facebook started as places where people could freely share opinions, but they have gradually yielded to government demands to censor and control what people say.
As a result, anyone expressing ideas that challenge the government narrative risks being intimidated or facing arrest for vague charges like “anti-state propaganda.” This creates an environment where many think twice before sharing their thoughts openly.
The Historical Context of Vietnamese Identity and National Pride
Vietnam's journey to independence is integral to its national pride today. The country has a long history of standing up against foreign powers, starting with the French colonial rule, followed by the Japanese occupation during World War II, and later, the conflict with the United States. Many Vietnamese view this last conflict as another form of foreign control (Slezakova).
While the U.S. involvement in Vietnam was often framed as a fight against communism, it also disrupted the Vietnamese people's chance to create their own democratic government. Instead of allowing locals to voice their needs and aspirations, outside forces imposed their beliefs, often sidelining Vietnamese voices. The efforts of those who fought for independence from French rule and the USA's presence are frequently overlooked in favour of foreign narratives (Slezakova; Becker).
To truly understand Vietnam's perspective, we must face some harsh realities from the past. The experiences of war victims—both Vietnamese civilians and American soldiers—are essential and worth sharing. The Vietnam War caused millions of casualties, leaving a legacy of grief that affects families even today (Journalism in Action). Therefore, the ongoing fight against censorship in Vietnam isn’t just about freedom of expression; it’s part of a larger struggle for the country’s autonomy and the right to self-determination.
A Fire of Resilience in Vietnam's Future
Despite facing challenges from government control and a troubled history, the people of Vietnam show remarkable strength and determination. My conversations with my host family reveal their deep pride in their culture and strong hope for a future with more openness. The younger generation, armed with knowledge and a broader view of the world, questions the information they receive and demands more honesty and fairness in politics.
Since the government introduced economic reforms called "Doi Moi" in the 1980s, Vietnam has seen rapid growth, allowing people to engage in business and civic activities like never before. However, the government struggles to balance this economic growth with political freedom, and its efforts to silence criticism may worsen things as citizens become more informed and want accountability.
I see a nation wrestling with its history while working hard to create a brighter, more hopeful future. The stories I've heard—about strength, cultural identity, and the quest for freedom—paint a rich picture of what it means to be Vietnamese today.
My journey through Vietnam has opened my eyes to the profound effects of historical narratives intertwined with contemporary struggles for freedom and identity. As this young nation moves forward, locals and observers like myself must remain vigilant and committed to truth—in history, the present, and the political discourse shaping Vietnam’s path. The stories of the past and the aspirations of the current generation urge us to recognize the value of voices that advocate for change, transparency, and hope.
Becker, Elizabeth. “The Secrets and Lies of the Vietnam War, Exposed in One Epic Document." The New
York Times. 9 Jun, 2021.
Ellsberg, Daniel. “The Pentagon Papers: The Secret History of the Vietnam War.” Journalism in Action.
Giang, Nguyen Khac, and Dien Nguyen An Luong. "Fewer Voices, More Control: Vietnam Reshapes Its
Media." Fulcrum. 17 Dec, 2024.
Reed, Aerolyne. “From Within and Without: The Complete Control of News and Media in Vietnam.” The
Vietnamese. 20 Nov, 2024.
Slezakova, Magdalena. “The Pleasant Lies Told About the Vietnam War, in Place of Unpleasant Truths.”
The Vietnamese. November 2019.
Tan, Rebecca. “Facebook Helped Bring Free Speech to Vietnam. Now It’s Helping Stifle It.” The
Washington Post. 19 Jun, 2023.
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