45TH YEAR HMONG DIASPORA BANQUET

1 John Nolen Drive,Madison WI 53703

02 October, 2021

Description

45TH YEAR CELEBRATION OF HMONG DIASPORA The year 2020 marks 45 years of the Hmong Diaspora in which the Hmong fled Laos as a result of being allies of the United States. After the United States withdrew its troops and Laos fell to communist, the new government launched a campaign to “wipe out” the Hmong. It was no longer safe for Hmong to stay in Laos. May 14, 1975, marked when thousands of Hmong fled Laos on foot, hiding in the jungle and crossing the Mekong River into Thailand as political refugees. Many Hmong were fortunate enough to come to America. Forty-five years later, Wisconsin is home to the 3rd largest Hmong in America. However, many Wisconsinites do not know who the Hmong are, what role they play in the war, and why they are in Wisconsin. Most importantly, they do not know their Hmong neighbors who brought with them a rich heritage, culture, and a 5,000-year-old history. The Hmong Institute, Inc. continues to empower communities through educating, preserving, and promoting the Hmong heritage. We planned to commemorate the Hmong coming to Wisconsin by hosting a series of regional speaking events to educate about the Hmong and a banquet. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are not able to host the series of regional speaking events, but we are going ahead with the 45-Year Hmong Diaspora Banquet in Madison. We will celebrate 45 years of Hmong diaspora in Wisconsin by honoring Hmong veterans, widows, and parents who made great sacrifices, reflecting on our refugee journey with a keynote address and presentations, and recognizing those who played significant roles during the Hmong refugee resettlement in Wisconsin. You and your family, friends, and colleagues are cordially invited to join us as we celebrate everyone’s resilience and enjoy a meal together with Hmong cultural performances. Seats are limited! Make your reservation today!