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The Hmong are a Southeast Asian mountain people who came to
the aid of the United State in the Vietnam War. When US was forced
to withdraw, the Hmong were abandoned, persecuted by the Communists
for helping the US, and forced into refugee camps in Thailand.
In the mid 1970's the US recognized its debt to them and began
resettling some of them in this country.
Of approximately 300,000 Hmong living in the US, more than
100,000 live in California; about 60,000 in the Central Valley.
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Nomads, the Hmong are known for packing what they can carry,
and heading off on foot in search of new places to settle. With
a tradition of large families and few modern skills, survival
in cities is difficult. With little English, most get on low-wage
jobs, and can't support a family. The Hmong have farmed for hundreds
of years, which is why so many find the Central Valley an ideal
location. There are over 1,200 Hmong families farming in the
Valley.
Hmong American Community Inc. (HAC) is a 501©(3) non-profit
organization whose mission is to promote better health and economic
welfare in the Hmong Community.
HAC's goal is to deliver effective and culturally sensitive
programs to meet the needs of the Hmong Community. HAC seeks
to empower the Hmong to make systematic changes in their health
and lives. In doing so, HAC is committed to:
- Preserving the Hmong culture.
- Providing health education, leadership training, and participation
in events and issues, which effect the daily lives of community
members.
- Providing viable social and economic development programs
that will help sustain the community and lead to self-sufficiency.
- Being recognized as a provider of effective community change.
HAC's programs are focused on making a profound difference
in the Hmong Community. The Board of Director composes of leaders
from diverse ethnic backgrounds and with various expertises including
the health care industry. Further guidance and leadership is
provided by an Advisory Board and a Community Advisory Committee
who are in direct contact with and understand the needs of the
Hmong population.
For more information, see the Hmong American Home Page: http://www.hmongamer.com
A project of The Rural Coalition
1012 14th Street Suite 1100
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 628-7160 Fax (202) 628-7165
Toll Free 1-866-RURAL-80
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