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Native American Studies, Cambodian American Studies, Hmong History and Cultural Studies, and Vietnamese American Experiences Model Curricula for K-12 Schools
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    • Hmong History and Cultural Studies Model Curriculum
      • Area of Study 1: Hmong Ways of Knowing
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Area of Study 1: Hmong Ways of Knowing

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Area of Study 1: Hmong Ways of Knowing

area of study 1 hmong : a person sitting in traditional dress under a tree and giving lecture to the kids like of an old time

Description of Artwork: The Hmong practice an oral culture, passing down their history, knowledge, stories, and art from one generation to the next through oral teachings and storytelling. Traditionally, Hmong elders (such as this grandpa and grandma who are also cultural bearers) would gather their children and friends to share folklore or life experiences. You will notice the clothes the Hmong children are wearing and the items they are holding all resemble some of the future hopes that their grandparents and parents have for their children. Image credit goes to Boon Ma Yang created specifically for the Hmong History and Cultural Studies Model Curriculum.

Introduction to the Hmong History and Cultural Studies Model Curriculum 

This narrative serves as an introduction for teachers interested in teaching Hmong history and cultural studies. It is crucial for teachers not only to understand the materials themselves, but also to comprehend their perceptions of people who are Hmong, their experiences, histories, and communities. 

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HMoob Ways of Knowing

This area of study narrative delves into the influence of geographical context and historical migrations on HMoob individual and collective identities. It aims to provide educators with valuable insights to better connect with their diverse students and communities. The area of study encompasses model lessons that cover complex topics such as identity, belonging, and resistance to oppression. 

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Hmong Spirituality and Cultural Ceremonies

Modern-day technology and social media, such as online videos, allow community members to collect and share Hmong oral histories and connect to cultural heritage on a global scale. Before the advent of online and digital technologies, however, one would have to sit down in person with an elder to access the rich accounts of oral history in Hmong cultures. 

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Lessons

"Photo of Hmong McLane High School graduates: Valedictorian Magna Cum Laude: Thai Vang and Salutatorian Linda Her and Linda's mother Kia Thao photographed by Joaquin Hernandez for Txhawb publication 2015 article “Against the Odds” "

Hmong Clan Structures

Painting of the folktale of the creation of the Hmong by Boonma Yang found in the article “What is the Hmong Soul.”

Introduction to Hmong Family Practices and Values

Painting of the act of cutting the baby’s hair to get rid of any negative energy by Boonma Yang found in the article “What is the Hmong Soul.”

Hmong Family Practices and Values - Birth

Image of author Mai Neng Vang of poem “My Name is Mai Neng” for Hmong for Biden Celebration.

What’s In a Name?

A photo of a Hmong boy captured in 1961 by John Willheim for “I Want to Ask My Father” identity poem by Chisi Amanda Xiong available in Txhawb Hmong California Directory.

Hmong Names and Name Changes

Painting of the couple named Nkawm Kab Yeeb who were the first two people on earth created by Yawm Saub who is known as the Hmong creator by Boonma Yang found in the article “What is the Hmong Soul.”

Hmong Family Practices and Values - Marriage

This piece of artwork titled “Txoj Sia,” created by Rachel Tshua Lor, depicts a Hmong woman trying to run away from being tied down by several “hlab si” (sashes).

A Look at Gender Norms

Painting of the cycle of the Hmong soul by Boonma Yang found in “What is the Hmong Soul.”

Hmong Family Practices and Values - Death and Funeral Rituals

Finger bells (Tswb neeb) often tied with red or white strings is part of the Hmong Shaman tools used to to travel into the spirit world, heal people, and/or fight off evil and lost spirits.

Hmong Religion (Shamanism)

A unique, live performance mixing spoken word by Tou Saiko Lee, and traditional music sung by his grandma, Youa Chang.

Hmong Worldview through Oral Traditions

Display of traditional Hmong instruments, such as the qeej and flute. Taken at the Center for Hmong Studies at Concordia University by Ger Thao, 2022.

Traditional Hmong Instruments

Three Hmong boys playing the qeej at the Little Mekong Night Market in St. Paul, Minnesota on August 7, 2015.

Bridging Generations through Hmong Music

This is early in the years before the story cloths became more streamlined and look alike. In the early years the story cloths reflected more first hand accounts and looked more custom and unique before they began to have the cookie cutter look.

The Story Behind Paj Ntaub (Story Cloth)

Story cloth narrating Hmong migration from Hmongstory Legacy Collection.

Narrating Hmong Migration

Family tree activity created by Thong Vang.

Stories of Our Families

Village boys in a remote Hmong village northeast of Laos (1971)

The Survival and Resilience of the Hmong People

Hmong New Year Celebration in Merced, CA in 2008.

HMoob New Year Celebration

Sunday Mass, Refugee Village of Ban Hui See, Laos 1968, Photo by Terry Woford

Introduction to Written Language

Guidance for Our Lessons and Resources
Glossary

Note: The guidance herein is not binding on local educational agencies or other entities. Except for the statutes, regulations, and court decisions cited, the content is exemplary, and compliance with it is not mandatory. (See California Education Code sections 33540.2, 33540.4, 33540.6 and 51226.9) 

Website inquiries should be addressed to chssp@ucdavis.edu. 

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