COMMUNITY

The Hmong Cultural Center Museum and Library has been awarded a $100,000 Community-Based Archives grant from the Mellon Foundation. Over the next two years, the grant will support the enhancing of archival work in the Hmong Cultural Center Museum and Library.

The vibrant sounds of tradition and the spirit of community will come alive this spring as the 2026 Qeej and Hmong Arts Festival welcomes visitors for a day-long cultural celebration.

For decades, their story lived in the margins of history—spoken quietly within families, remembered in community gatherings, and carried in the hearts of those who fought a war few Americans ever fully understood.

Paul Xiong’s life embodies the American Dream – built through hardship, perseverance, and a deep commitment to serving others.

Are you currently looking to rent a home or apartment? Then you need to protect yourself from rental fraud.

Young people in Dane County who are passionate about the outdoors, sustainability, and have an interest in careers in conservation are encouraged to apply for the Conservation Career Pathways Program.

The Saint Paul-based Hmong Studies Journal in partnership with the Hmong Cultural Center of Minnesota is pleased to announce the publication of a special issue focused on 50 years of the Hmong Experience in Minnesota.

Recently, sitting Maplewood City Council Member Chonburi Lee is announced his run for Mayor in Maplewood, Minnesota in Ramsey County. 

The current ICE Operations in the Twin Cities including St. Paul are impacting Hmong Cultural Center and our clients. ESL and Citizenship classes are only running online until further notice.

From January through December of 2025, the Hmong Times documented moments of remembrance, resilience, creativity, and forward movement across our communities.

It is within this context that the crowning of Amy Vang-Thao as the first-ever Mrs. Hmong Minnesota holds historic and cultural significance far beyond a pageant title.

On November 15, 2025, I walked into the Grand Ballroom at the Saint Paul RiverCentre and felt a weight I have carried my entire life settle onto my shoulders – yet for the first time, it was a weight shared by more than 1,200 Hmong brothers and sisters gathered in one place.

My father often reminded us that culture is not just something we inherit – it is something we choose to protect. Every year, as I join the Minnesota Hmong New Year celebration, I am reminded just how alive his vision remains among our people.

Muaj kev hloov tshiab tabtom yuav los rau kev duav roos pov hwm kev kho mob Medicaid.

Our story has only just begun. Kaohly’s journey shows what is possible when courage, education, and service converge.

As the autumn chill settles across Minnesota and families gather to reflect on blessings, a powerful celebration of heritage, resilience, and community will rise in St. Paul.

A great stride forward was made by the Hmong community last week with the election of Minnesota Representative Kaohly Vang Her to become the next mayor of St. Paul. On behalf of the Frederick Douglass Project

This year’s awards recognize five recipients challenging absent and harmful narratives on race and building solutions that unite instead of divide from St. Paul and Minneapolis to Duluth and Winona.

Those applying for U.S. Citizenship BEFORE October 20, 2025 will take the shorter Citizenship test with 100 questions, those applying for U.S. Citizenship AFTER October 20, 2025 will take the new, harder Citizenship test.

Journalism stands as a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. It informs the public, holds power accountable, and fosters community dialogue. Yet, as our society navigates rapid change and new threats, the way we consume news is undergoing a massive transformation.

Wa Chong Vang, the distinguished son of the late General Vang Pao, lived a life defined by courage, honor, and devotion to his people. His journey reflected the indomitable spirit of the Hmong nation – a story of perseverance, sacrifice, and hope passed from one generation to the next. A soldier, scholar, and advocate, Wa Chong carried forward his father’s vision with humility, grace, and unshakable purpose. His life remains a powerful testament to what it means to lead – not through words, but through quiet strength, service, and example.

In a decisive victory that underscores both the growing diversity and evolving priorities of Minnesota’s electorate, XP Lee won the District 34B special election on Tuesday, capturing 60.8% of the vote against Republican challenger Ruth Bittner’s 39.1%, according to the Secretary of State’s Office.

When Keller Regional Park in Maplewood officially reopened its renovated tuj lub courts this year, the moment was more than just a ribbon-cutting — it was a celebration of culture, community, and continuity.

When Food & Wine announced its coveted 2025 Restaurant of the Year, the culinary world took notice. The honor didn’t go to a Michelin-starred spot in New York or a high-profile tasting menu in Los Angeles — it went to Diane’s Place, a soulful Hmong restaurant nestled in Northeast Minneapolis.

Plus, Citizenship Success Stories

As part of the 50th year commemoration, Hmong Museum is seeking to map historically significant places of the Hmong community across Minnesota.

Centering on the theme of “50 Years Strong,” Hmong Minnesota Day at the Minnesota State Fair 2025 is Monday, September 1st.

Kaohly Her, State Representative for District 64A, Speaker Pro Tempore of the Minnesota House, and co-chair of the House Commerce Finance and Policy Committee, announced her candidacy for Mayor of Saint Paul. 

Hurry! Discount Tickets On Sale Through August 20 Only!

A new exhibit showcasing the 33-year history of the Hmong Cultural Center of Minnesota is now on display on the second floor of the HCC Museum in Saint Paul. The exhibit was produced in partnership with Museology Museum Services.

The 43rd annual Hmong International Freedom Festival, popularly known as J4, drew Hmong communities from Minnesota, Wisconsin, California, and beyond to Como Park’s McMurray Field on June 28–29, 2025

The Hmong International Freedom Festival is approaching fast, and everyone is excited about attending this monumental event that will be held Saturday, June 28th, and Sunday, June 29th, 2023. Nearly 60,000 people attend the two-day festival each year.

It is the mission of the Hmong Cultural Center to promote the personal development of children, youth, and adults through education while providing resources that enhance cross-cultural awareness and understanding.

The Bush Foundation announced the 2025 Bush Fellows – individuals whose bold vision and leadership are shaping communities in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and the 23 Native nations that share the same geography.

Join us as we celebrate 50 years of Hmong freedom after the exodus from Laos at the 43rd Annual Hmong International Freedom Festival.

Skyline Mini Golf returns to the Walker rooftop this summer with stunning skyline views and fun for all ages.

Culture Bearers have been defined as individuals deeply rooted in their cultural heritage, actively participating in, and transmitting their community’s traditions, practices, and knowledge to future generations.

Start your summer at Tater Daze in Brooklyn Park on Saturday, May 31st!

Produced by Twin Cities PBS (TPT) and Hosted by Chef Yia Vang, the Sixth Season of the Food and Culture Series Premieres June 23.