Week 8
Christian Funk
ASA141

Hmong History and Culture Through Textile Art


The Hmong, like so many other Asian ethnic groups, are relatively new to the United States. Since the 1980s, nearly 100,000 and growing Hmong are living throughout the country. The Hmong like other immigrant groups are looking for a greater life, a life of greater opportunity for their families, perhaps the "American dream." However, the Hmong seem to be marginalized in society. How can this be reduced and the social understanding of this new group to the states be bettered? What better way to learn about the culture of a group than through fashion and through art? This is the basis of the article. Hmong groups are known for their art in textiles. Hmong fabrics often showcase a story --a family history even. These textiles arts of the Hmong are now being brought to light since their mass numbers have reached the United States. What else can we learn from other marginalized groups in the United States?