The following article was written by Dr. Kaonou Hang-Vue, the Hmong Culture Symposium Organizer.
Hello! Nyob zoo! Please join me and Manitowoc Public Library on Thursday, May 30, at 5 PM in the Balkansky Community Room as we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month and a belated Hmong American Day as we present A Hmong Cultural Symposium: An Exploration of Hmong-American Identity. Each year we strive to bring a new aspect of the Hmong culture to share with the Lakeshore Community.
This year, our focus will be on the resiliency of the Hmong people as they escaped war-torn Laos by crossing the dangerous Mekong River and eventually settling in refugee camps across Thailand, where they would await passage to the United States, France, Australia, or wherever their new home was going to be. There’s no better way to experience the journey than through a panel of Hmong-American men and women who will share their unique and incredible journeys from Laos to the United States. You will not want to miss these once in a lifetime stories!
In the past, during May, the Hmong exhibits at Manitowoc Public Library have displayed our vibrant Hmong culture through artifacts, artists and their art works, Hmong history, our traditional outfits, Hmong leaders/influencers and, of course, books written by Hmong authors. The exhibits have served as an introduction to the Hmong people, culture, and history. This year, as the Hmong celebrate 49 years in the United States, we strive to share more of our history through personal experiences—the stories of how and where it all began. This symposium aims to share our narratives to ensure the community understands where the Hmong people came from and why we now call the United States our home.
In addition to stories from the panelists, our evening would not be complete without some singing, dancing, and audience participation:
- A Hmong dance instructor will be on hand to teach a simple Hmong dance to the audience, so be ready to get up and move
- Our artists will be dressed up in beautiful Hmong outfits as they share their talents
- Get your taste buds ready for some delicious treats and beverages provided by our local restaurant sponsors
- Last but not least, stay through the end of the evening and you could win big prizes donated from Seehafer Broadcasting, prizes like Wisconsin Timber Rattlers tickets and golf packages at the local resorts/country club
Our evening of Hmong cultural enrichment at Manitowoc Public Library would not be possible without our generous sponsors: he Manitowoc Public Library, Seehafer Broadcasting, Pa Vang of Home Sellers, Tou Long Yang of Creative Results, Dr. Kaonou Hang-Vue, and Kou Vang of Manitowoc Pho and Grill and Ann Asian Market. Please support our sponsors and their businesses.
We can’t wait to see you at A Hmong Cultural Symposium: An Exploration of Hmong-American Identity. It will definitely be am evening to remember!