New documentary chronicles Iowa's 1970s refugee efforts

A documentary chronicling former Gov. Robert Ray's efforts to welcome thousands of Tai Dam and Southeast Asian refugees to Iowa in the 1970s debuts Wednesday.

Why it matters: " Refugees Welcome " resonates beyond Iowa and could help bring historical context and meaning to today's humanitarian outreach efforts, Laura Ling, the documentary's producer, tells Axios.

Flashback: Millions of people became refugees because of the Vietnam War.

• Ray was the only governor at the time to answer a call to help resettle families, ignoring anger from some Iowans who disagreed.

The intrigue: This documentary includes footage of last year's wedding between Jeffrey Newland — Ray's grandson — and Jasmine Vong, the daughter of Tai Dam refugees.

• "I wouldn't be here if it weren't for your grandpa," an emotional Vong says to Newland in the film.

Watch it: On the Very Local app , which is available on all mobile and connected TV devices.