Hmong Americans: 30 Years
In-Review
Kou Yang, Ed.D.
Chair, Ethnic and Gender Studies Department
Associate Professor of Asian American Studies
California State University, Stanislaus USA
Abstract
The experience of Hmong Americans during the last 30 years is very unique and
fascinating. They came from very disadvantage background and must adapt to
America, the most developed country in the world, from the very bottom up. The
gap between the two cultures is very large, making it more difficulty for them
to overcome their acculturation needs in a short period of time. Because of
their unprepared background, their first 15 years in the United States are
preoccupied with many difficulties, including cultural shock, unemployment,
welfare reliance, poverty and other acculturation problems. The decade of 1992
to 1999 marks the second phase of their adaptation to life in the United States.
This decade is the turning point for Hmong Americans as they began to run for
office, develop business enterprises, and most importantly reduce the rate of
welfare participation. Beginning from 2000, Hmong Americans have entered a new
phase of adaptation to life in the United States. As they entered the 21st
century, their population became more diverse, youthful, educated and assertive.
Further, Hmong Americans have become more politically active, educationally
competitive, and high-tech oriented. Furthermore, they have also entered many
professions, including Art, Anthropology, Computer, Education, Engineering,
Journalism, Law, Medicine, Military, Psychology, Science, Social Work, and
Teaching. On the other extreme of the spectrum, Hmong Americans face with many
pressing needs and issues. Some of the pressing needs and issues are family
conflict, generation gap, health and mental health, poverty, and the lack of the
know-how and accessibility to resources and information.
This paper reviews the experience of Hmong Americans during the last 30 years
and list issues and problems that face Hmong Americans in 2005 and beyond. Its
main emphasis is on Hmong Americans’ acculturation, education, economic and
business development, political participation, and contributions.