After the Vietnam War, many Hmong people found themselves as refugees. The resettlement of some to the United States began in 1975, with multiple waves continuing until 2006. Today Minneapolis-St. Paul is home to the largest urban Hmong population in the world. The Hmong people in Minnesota have developed a strong and vibrant community in their chapter of the immigrant story in America.
June 3, 1983 - MPR’s Jim Ragsdale reports on Hmong students as they prepare to graduate. They not only had to learn the English language, but also American highschool culture. Now they must prepare for the challenges that lie ahead after graduation.
September 14, 1984 - MPR’s Paula Schroeder reports on efforts of Southeast Asian refugees and educators to develop successful English as a second language (ESL) programs. In particular, the Hmong have an additional challenge in learning English, as their own language didn’t have a written form.
April 25, 1985 - MPR’s Tom Meersman reports on Hmong leaders seeking assistance from state on addressing the continued needs for various programs, including English as a second language (ESL). Local advocates see the language barrier as a source for health and employment challenges in the Hmong community.
April 24, 1986 - MPR’s Tom Meersman reports on the decrease in Hmong resettlement within the Twin Cities. Meersman interviews several political and refugee officials about distinction of family unification and the Hmong community’s emphasis towards education as they adapt to new home.
June 16, 1986 - MPR’s Tom Meersman reports on graduation of Minnesota police candidates. Of the group, one is a Native American woman; another, the first Hmong police officer.
October 3, 1986 - MPR’s Tom Meersman presents a five-part series “People Without Countries,” a collection of reports about life in Thailand refugee camps.
May 29, 1987 - MPR’s Stephen Smith reports on the upcoming arrival of a new round of Hmong refugees to the United States. Smith interviews numerous officials about the Hmong hardships and resettlement.
September 18, 1987 - MPR’s Tom Meersman reports from Twin Cities International Airport as Northwest flight 128 arrives from Bangkok. Among its passengers are nearly three dozen Hmong refugees planning to resettle in Minnesota. Meersman speaks with officials about the difficulites to be faced…including housing, language, and jobs.
September 7, 1988 - MPR’s Tom Meersman reports on the largest influx of Hmong refugees to arrive in Minnesota since 1981. Meersman speaks with numerous officials about the challenges that arise for both the refugees and organizations trying to assist.
June 3, 1989 - MPR’s Mark Heistad reports on Hmong farmers in the Twin Cities area. Farming is a natural transition for Hmong immigrants settling in Minnesota. It is also an important factor towards independance and bonding of family.