Two attend his alma mater, the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, one is at Bentley College, and one was recently accepted to Boston Latin. Twenty-five years is long enough. It is time for them to go,'' he says fiercely, vowing that he is ready to take up arms if necessary. He scoffs at the younger Vietnamese who believe the best way to democratize Vietnam is through engagement. Some older Vietnamese shun those who visit their homeland and spend money they say benefits the communist regime.
People get panic when they see that picture.
Tran's store is one of about 40 owned by Vietnamese immigrants along the community's spine, Dorchester Avenue in Fields Corner. Other Vietnamese immigrants, particularly the younger ones who have overcome language and job-training deficits, have gravitated to computer companies, the financial industry, and professions such as doctor, lawyer, and teacher. Because they are so visible, the Vietnamese-owned businesses are a particular source of pride. Some of our families were lost in the sea, or the jungle, or the reeducation camp. And still, we come in a new society and give back to the community.