Who are the Hmong people?

The Hmong are a distinct group of people originated from China dated back to the 14th century.  After many civil wars with the Chinese during the 18th century, many Hmong migrated to Southeast Asia. 

Eventually they made their homes on the mountain tops of North Vietnam, Laos and Thailand.  Because of their value for freedom and democracy, the Hmong supported the French during their time of colonization of Southeast Asia in the late 19th Century. 

Later, they supported the United States’ effort to prevent the communists from taking control of Laos in the 1960’s.  In this capacity, the Hmong became alliance of the United States in a Secret War against the North Vietnamese communist. 

After the Vietnam war ended in 1975, the Hmong were targeted by the communists for persecution.  They had limited choices, therefore many of them fled to the refugee camps in Thailand and eventually resettled in third countries such as United States, Canada, Australia, France, South America, and other countries. 

Therefore, the majority of the Hmong that are living in the United States are refugees from Laos. 

The Hmong are:

• Clan and family oriented people. 

• They are known for and proud of their hospitality, friendliness and self-sufficient effort. 

• They like to live close to their family members and clan members so that they can help each other in time of need.