SAINT PAUL, Minn. — A vigil to remember the life and impact of a high-profile Hmong community activist has been set for this weekend.
His family announced Tuesday that the candlelight vigil for Tou Ger Xiong will be held this Saturday, Dec. 23 from 4 to 8 p.m. at East Ridge High School in Woodbury. The 50-year-old was Tou Ger Xiong was a refugee from Laos who found a role in the St. Paul community as a comedian and activist who helped bridge cultural gaps.
Tou was vacationing in South America when he was kidnapped and killed either Dec. 11 or 12, according to a Colombian newspaper. Authorities have not yet released details or a motive for his murder.
At Saturday's memorial speakers and performers will share stories that capture the essence of who Tou Ger Xiong was, and how he cared for and built community.
“I gave birth to Tou Ger, but he was all of our son," said Tou's mother Sao Lou Vue in a statement. "He loved everyone, and he belongs to everyone.”
Tou Ger's family is asking anyone who may have photos of him or publications or personal stories about him to send copies to tougerxiongfamily@gmail.com so they can collect and assemble memories of his life.
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