The following article was written by Dr. Kaonou Hang-Vue, the Event Organizer for “A Celebration of Hmong Culture.”
It’s finally May and do you know why this month is so special? May is Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month! Here’s a little piece of trivia for you . . . May was chosen as AAPI month to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. Since 1990, every May, we celebrate the achievement and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States.
For the past few years, during the month of May, Manitowoc Public Library has recognized the importance of the Hmong people, culture and history. And this year, May 14 has been proclaimed Hmong American Day by our very own Mayor Justin Nickels. What a great month to celebrate AAPI month and Hmong American Day!
This May, Manitowoc Public Library is holding its 3rd Annual Hmong Exhibit celebrating Hmong culture. In addition to the usual array of Hmong items and history panels on display, a new section of the exhibit called “Success Looks Like Me” has been added to showcase Hmong men and women who have made a positive impact in their communities through their careers, talent, leadership and philanthropy.
Through hard work and perseverance, all the brief biographies highlight the accomplishments and dreams achieved despite very humble beginnings. I invite you to read about each and every success story featuring prosperous Hmong entrepreneurs, dedicated doctors and professors, passionate community leaders, and talented artists. As a Hmong American, I’m so proud that these men and women represent what it means to be Hmong and to be living the American Dream.
I’m so excited to collaborate with artist Vam Moua of East Los Angeles, CA. He is one of the first Hmong male designers and has created two Hmong-inspired clothing lines. Vam’s visual movement honors and promotes the richness of the Hmong culture and heritage through the arts to inspire future generations. Vam has generously donated four images to be displayed during the exhibit and four lucky winners will go home with a poster on the evening of “A Celebration of Hmong Culture” at the library. You don’t want to miss this Hmong Culture Night!
Every Hmong exhibit would not be complete without a few beautiful Hmong outfits, both traditional and modern. Hmong fashion has changed so much over the years that it was difficult to choose what should be included in the display. This year, some unique Hmong women hats were added to the display. Take a peek and see if you can identify the different kinds of hats on display and make your own hat during the “Celebration of Hmong Culture” to take home!
Don’t forget—“A Celebration of Hmong Culture” is scheduled to take place at Manitowoc Public Library on Thursday, May 18, 2023, from 6-7:30 PM in the Balkansky Room. This event is FREE and open to the public. Everyone is invited to wear their favorite Hmong attire. See you there!
Read the original article at Seehafer News
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