From Refugee to Citizen: The Hmong Journey from Rural History to Urban Experience Friday, January 30, 2015 | 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

The Givens Conference Room (120 Elmer Andersen Library, on the U’s West Bank Campus)

Critical Conversations About Diversity and Justice

Nearly 49% of Hmong people in the US live in the Midwest, primarily in Minnesota and Wisconsin, and Minneapolis and St. Paul are home to the largest urban population of Hmong Americans. What factors characterized the large migration of Hmong from 1978 through the 1980s, compared to those who arrived after 2000? How are the demographics and interests within these two groups similar in some ways, but also different?  How has their agricultural history affected Hmong life in the US and how are different attitudes and interests about the urban experience expressed across  generations? Collectively, Hmong in the US are young, with 44% under the age of 18 (2010 US Census). How are youth in this community affecting traditional attitudes, practices, and beliefs regarding education, the role of women, marriage and family, the importance of clan, and many other issues? Through their personal stories and professional experiences, learn how our panelists have become active citizens, entrepreneurs, scholars, and political leaders, helping to solve community problems and contributing to society as a whole.

Panelists:  Foung Hawj, Senator, Minnesota Legislature; Kao Nou Moua, University of Minnesota doctoral student and Research Associate, School of Social Work; Bao Vang, Executive Director, Hmong American Partnership; Zha Blong Xiong, Associate Professor, University of Minnesota Department of Family Social Science.  Moderator:  Juavah Lee, Assistant Director, Multicultural Center for Academic Excellence, Office for Equity and Diversity, University of Minnesota.

These conversations are open to all students, staff, faculty and community members, and do not require an RSVP.