People's University: Hmong in Minnesota January 31, 2008

Presented by Dr. Chia Youyee Vang, assistant professor of history at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee.

According to the 2000 census more than 42,000 Hmong live in Minnesota and today the Twin Cities area has the largest number of Hmong persons of any metropolitan area in the nation. Dr. Vang, a refugee from Laos and author of Hmong in Minnesota, will recount the colorful, intricate history of Hmong Minnesotans, many of whom were forced to flee their homeland of Laos when the communists seized power during the Vietnam War in the mid-70s. Through personal stories from immigrants, Vang will offer a unique perspective into the lives of the Minnesota Hmong population –- exploring the immigrants' struggle to adjust to new environments, build communities, maintain cultural practices, and make their mark on government policies and programs today.

Visit our website for free registration!

The Friends of the Minneapolis Public Library and Marquette Financial Companies present The People's University at the Library, offering free lectures and classes taught by distinguished professors and cultural experts.

Classes are completely free and open to everyone, but class size is limited -- so register today.

Official Website: http://www.friendsofmpl.org/events_home.html