In this issue, we exclusively feature local Vietnamese American creatives, which is timely not only because it marks the 50th year of the diaspora following the American War in Vietnam but also because we, as a nation, continue to struggle to act with justice as we assist immigrants and refugees. Ironically, this is not a new topic. Ancient wisdom has long instructed us, “You shall not mistreat or oppress a stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Exodus 22:21). Therefore, I am honored, as a second-generation immigrant American, to amplify the journeys of those who have experienced great sacrifice, trauma, and triumph in this issue. The beauty and complexities of life reveal that many aspects of a situation are not merely contrasts or opposites but paradoxes—a dynamic. This is demonstrated in the unity of our humanity and the diversity of our individuality. So, even though this issue has a specific focus, it aligns with my hope for all 70 issues: for us to connect.

Enjoy,
Daniel Garcia
THE CULTIVATOR

FEATURING:
Expressions of the Vietnamese American Experience, Dr. Hien Do | Cultural Exchange with Dad Bod Rap Pod, Nate LeBlanc, David Ma, & Demone Carter | Cosplayer, Linda ‘Vampy” Le | Director, Actor, Playwright, and Educator, Vinh G. Nguyen | Ballerina, Naomi Le | Author and Professor, Viet Thanh Nguyen | Filmmaker, Anh Le | Photographic Artist and Professor, Binh Danh | Artist, Curator, Educator, Vĩ Sơn Trinh | Painter, Minhquang Nguyen | Chef/Owners Hết Sẩy, DuyAn & Hieu Le | Musician and Composer, Vân-Ánh Vo | LOLAH, Ha Nguyen