Other Research Publications
Title: Conservation and Ethnobotanical Knowledge of a Hmong Community in Long Lan, Luang Prabang, Lao People's Democratic Republic Authors: Cory William Whitney, Min (Meej Vaj) Vang Sin, Giang Lê Hồng, Can Vu Van, Keith Barber, Lanh Thi Tran. Location: N.A. Publisher: Ethnobotany Journal: 2014. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 16 pages. Format: PDF.
Abstract: In 2012 and 2013 participatory ethnobotany explorations were undertaken with herbalists from the Hmong ethnic group of Long Lan village, in Luang Prabang, Lao People’s Democratic Republic. These investigations into the knowledge and experience of indigenous elders of Long Lan and surrounding villages sought to identify the relationship between the spiritual-cultural practices and livelihood uses of plants and their conservation. Information about 74 plant species of 49 families was recorded, including 25 herbs (17 perennial, 8 annual), 20 trees, 17 shrubs, 10 climbers, and 2 ferns. Analysis of quantitative ethnobotany scores indicated positive trends between uses and conservation practices for plants. The study suggests that the traditional Hmong cultural uses for plants may be a mechanism for the conservation of biodiversity in the rapidly deteriorating forests of Luang Prabang in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
Title: Exploring Travel Interests and Constraints among Minnesota Hmong. Authors: Michele Schermann, Ingrid Schneider, Chou Moua & Tou Thai Lee. Location: Minneapolis. Publisher: University of Minnesota Extension. Year: 2014. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 26 pages. Format: PDF.
Abstract: As Minnesotans comprise about half of Minnesota’s travel market (Davidson Peterson, 2012), understanding this in-state population is important to attract and retain consumers and, subsequently, support communities and economies. As of 2015, tourist data primarily focuses on white, non-Hispanics. Other markets exist, however,and are growing in Minnesota and elsewhere. A rather unique Minnesota market is the Hmong, as the state has the second highest Hmong population in the United States. Research on other immigrant groups finds some challenges and opportunities related to leisure and leisure-related activities, such as travel. This report provides results from initial qualitative explorations of Hmong leisure travel behaviors. Given a self-reported propensity towards outdoor recreation and nature-based tourism, Hmong are particularly important to consider in destination areas where the outdoors is a key attraction. Results will inform planning, marketing,and product development for Hmong tourists as a niche group both in the United States and Minnesota.Six focus groups occurred fall 2014 with a convenience sample of Hmong Minnesotans across three age groups (n= 56). Held in socially valued places and facilitated by a Hmong Minnesotan who could speak Hmong and English, the focus groups explored travel interests, behaviors,and preferences among participants. The discussions took place in the language preferred by the group (English, Hmong,or a combination of the two), were recorded for later review, and ended with a traditional Hmong meal. Participants were compensated for their time ($50) and invited to review and confirm the data and findings.Data revealed Hmong travel for and are generally constrained from travel for similar reasons as non-Hmong. Specifically, Hmong Minnesotans travel to get away, relax, and visit attractions or appealing destinations. Hmong Minnesotans do not travel as much as they desire due to time, finances, and distance to destinations. Like other immigrant groups, the influence of culture on leisure travel preferences and participation was clear, as were constraints of discrimination. Specific cultural influences on travel included the perceived value of leisure travel, familial responsibility for elders, travel group size, as well as food preferences. Discrimination was particularly prominent outside the Twin Cities Metropolitan area. Generational differences in travel preferences and behaviors existed and are in stark contrast to the broader U.S. and Minnesota population where the older generation has more money and interest in travel than - Hmong elders and the younger generation is not as culturally compelled toward group family travel. To attract and retain Hmong consumers, Hmong suggest 1) facility information, specifically for larger travel groups and parking; 2) Hmong marketing through word of mouth, traditional and electronic, 3) packages and tours including Hmong travelers.
Title: Asian Pacific Students in Minnesota: Facts, not Fiction. Authors: Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans. Location: Saint Paul, MN. Year: 2012. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 46 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: (From the Executive Summary), according to the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) 2011 test results,66.1% and 54.4% of Asian Pacific students scored as proficient on the MCA reading and math tests, respectively. In comparison, 80.8% and 63.3% of White students were proficient in reading and math, respectively. This seemingly smaller achievement gap between Asian Pacific and White students has led to less attention and concern given to the needs of Asian Pacific students in Minnesota. However, researchers, community members, and educational professionals have long recognized that the reporting of aggregated data for Asian Pacific students is misleading and masks educational disparities experienced within the Asian Pacific population in Minnesota.In response, this report disaggregates MCA data for Asian Pacific students by language spoken at home, ethnicity, income level, English proficiency, and mobility. Through such analysis, this report providesnew understandings about the academic performance of Asian Pacific studentsin Minnesota.
Title: State of the Asian Pacific Minnesotans Report. Authors: Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans. Location: Saint Paul, MN. Year: 2012. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 36 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: Every ten years, the United States of America goes about the process of counting or enumeration of its population. This census is constitutionally mandated as a way to apportion the members of the United States House of Representatives. The census is also used to distribute federal funding to local communities. In the 2010 Census, approximately 74% of households returned their census form by mail, the remaining households were counted by census workers walking neighborhoods throughout the United States. Minnesota’s response rate was 75%.The census is the most comprehensive source of demographic data on the US population and tells us much about our nation’s people and its change over time. This report presents the current state of Asian Pacific Minnesotans, what our population is, and our social and economic status. The data herein provides a snapshot of the lives we lead and is evidence of the struggles and successes we face. In black and white numbers, it tells us who we are, but it does not tell us who we will be.
Title: Southeast Asians at a Glance: Statistical Profile 2010. Source: SEARAC. Location: Washington D.C. Year: 2011. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 21 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: This report provides a range of statistical data pertaining to Southeast Asian American ethnic groups across the United States from the 2010 census. The following general categories of variables are included in the data tables: population, immigration and naturalization; education; income and employment and housing.
Title: Tobacco Use in Minnesota: A Quantitative Survey of Cambodian, Hmong, Lao and Vietnamese Community Members. Source: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, ClearWay MinnesotaSM, Asian Pacific Tobacco-Free Coalition of Minnesota, Southeast Asian Refugee Community Home. Location: Minneapolis, MN. Year: 2009. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 64 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: This report presents results of the DREGAN quantitative research initiative, a survey of members of the Southeast Asian communities in Minnesota (Cambodians, Hmong, Lao and Vietnamese). The research project aimed to determine the prevalence of smoking among minnesota’s Southeast Asian communities using culturally appropriate survey methods. An additional goal was to describe knowledge of the harms of tobacco use, attempts to quit and exposure to secondhand smoke among these communities.
Title: Voices of those Impacted by the Economic Downturn and Recommendations for Economic Recovery for the Asian American Worker. Authors: Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans. Location: Saint Paul, MN. Year: 2009. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 39 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: (From the Executive Summary): this report offers a picture of the challenges facing Asian refugees and immigrants in today's bleak job market. Their stories put a face on the crisis.
Title: Dropout Prevention: Stories and Ideas from Hmong and Lao High School Students in North Minneapolis Authors: Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans. Location: Saint Paul, MN. Year: 2008. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 26 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: (From the Executive Summary): Asian Pacific Islander students as a group are staying in school and finishing school at about the same rate as the statewide rate of 3%. Even in Minneapolis and St. Paul, the two cities with the largest enrollment of API students, the rates are the same as in St. Paul (10%) or slightly better as in Minneapolis (7% vs. 12%). Thus, at first glance administrators, educators, and policymakers might be tempted to look at API students and think that they are doing well. This perception is wrong and it jeopardizes API students, their families, and community. When these rates are compared to the statewide rate, twice as many API students in St. Paul and three times as many API students in Minneapolis dropout. The impact of these statistics are damaging and they are not acceptable.
Title: 1990 Census of Population: Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Authors: U.S. Census Bureau. Source: U.S. Census Bureau. Location: Washington, D.C. Year: 1990. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 332 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: A source book of statistical tables pertaining to Asian ethnic groups in the 1990 U.S. Census.
Title: Handbook for Teaching Khmer-Speaking Students Author: Southeast Asia Community Resource Center. Source: Southeast Asia Community Resource Center. Location: Rancho Cordova, CA Year: 1988. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 166 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: A handbook with cultural and pedagogical information to assist educators working with Khmer-speaking students.
Title: Cambodia: Cultural Background for ESOL Teachers. Author: Tuong Hung Nguyen. Source: N.A. Location: N.A. Year: N.A. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 5 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: This short article provides cultural information intended to assist educators working with Cambodian-origin students.
Title: Thailand: Cultural Background for ESL/EFL Teachers. Author: Tuong Hung Nguyen. Source: N.A. Location: N.A. Year: N.A. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 5 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: This short article provides cultural information intended to assist educators working with Thai-origin students.
Title: Hmong mental health An assessment of mental health needs and services for the Hmong community in Ramsey County. Author: Mao Thao, Amy Leite, & Julie Atella. Source: Wilder Foundation. Location: Saint Paul, MN. Year: 2010. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 92 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: The Children and Family Services (CFS) division of the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation and Ramsey County’s Children’s Mental Health Services (CMHS) contracted with Wilder Research to evaluate the mental health needs of the Hmong community, and the availability and accessibility of mental health services for Hmong youth and adults in Ramsey County. Research questions included: What is the scope of mental health issues within the Hmong community? Is there a need for Western mental health services in Ramsey County? What disparities exist? How can the mental health system reduce disparities for Hmong children, youth and adults? What barriers does the Hmong community face in accessing mental health services? What barriers prevent Hmong children, youth, and adults from being identified and referred for mental health services? Where and how do Hmong families access mental health services? What is the availability of mental health services within Ramsey County for the Hmong community? What mental health services are effective? How can those services be improved? What mental health services are most needed? How can social and health systems within Ramsey County be more responsive to the mental health needs of the Hmong community?
Title: Conservation and Ethnobotanical Knowledge of a Hmong Community in Long Lan, Luang Prabang, Lao People's Democratic Republic Authors: Cory William Whitney, Min (Meej Vaj) Vang Sin, Giang Lê Hồng, Can Vu Van, Keith Barber, Lanh Thi Tran. Location: N.A. Publisher: Ethnobotany Journal: 2014. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 16 pages. Format: PDF.
Abstract: In 2012 and 2013 participatory ethnobotany explorations were undertaken with herbalists from the Hmong ethnic group of Long Lan village, in Luang Prabang, Lao People’s Democratic Republic. These investigations into the knowledge and experience of indigenous elders of Long Lan and surrounding villages sought to identify the relationship between the spiritual-cultural practices and livelihood uses of plants and their conservation. Information about 74 plant species of 49 families was recorded, including 25 herbs (17 perennial, 8 annual), 20 trees, 17 shrubs, 10 climbers, and 2 ferns. Analysis of quantitative ethnobotany scores indicated positive trends between uses and conservation practices for plants. The study suggests that the traditional Hmong cultural uses for plants may be a mechanism for the conservation of biodiversity in the rapidly deteriorating forests of Luang Prabang in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
Title: Exploring Travel Interests and Constraints among Minnesota Hmong. Authors: Michele Schermann, Ingrid Schneider, Chou Moua & Tou Thai Lee. Location: Minneapolis. Publisher: University of Minnesota Extension. Year: 2014. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 26 pages. Format: PDF.
Abstract: As Minnesotans comprise about half of Minnesota’s travel market (Davidson Peterson, 2012), understanding this in-state population is important to attract and retain consumers and, subsequently, support communities and economies. As of 2015, tourist data primarily focuses on white, non-Hispanics. Other markets exist, however,and are growing in Minnesota and elsewhere. A rather unique Minnesota market is the Hmong, as the state has the second highest Hmong population in the United States. Research on other immigrant groups finds some challenges and opportunities related to leisure and leisure-related activities, such as travel. This report provides results from initial qualitative explorations of Hmong leisure travel behaviors. Given a self-reported propensity towards outdoor recreation and nature-based tourism, Hmong are particularly important to consider in destination areas where the outdoors is a key attraction. Results will inform planning, marketing,and product development for Hmong tourists as a niche group both in the United States and Minnesota.Six focus groups occurred fall 2014 with a convenience sample of Hmong Minnesotans across three age groups (n= 56). Held in socially valued places and facilitated by a Hmong Minnesotan who could speak Hmong and English, the focus groups explored travel interests, behaviors,and preferences among participants. The discussions took place in the language preferred by the group (English, Hmong,or a combination of the two), were recorded for later review, and ended with a traditional Hmong meal. Participants were compensated for their time ($50) and invited to review and confirm the data and findings.Data revealed Hmong travel for and are generally constrained from travel for similar reasons as non-Hmong. Specifically, Hmong Minnesotans travel to get away, relax, and visit attractions or appealing destinations. Hmong Minnesotans do not travel as much as they desire due to time, finances, and distance to destinations. Like other immigrant groups, the influence of culture on leisure travel preferences and participation was clear, as were constraints of discrimination. Specific cultural influences on travel included the perceived value of leisure travel, familial responsibility for elders, travel group size, as well as food preferences. Discrimination was particularly prominent outside the Twin Cities Metropolitan area. Generational differences in travel preferences and behaviors existed and are in stark contrast to the broader U.S. and Minnesota population where the older generation has more money and interest in travel than - Hmong elders and the younger generation is not as culturally compelled toward group family travel. To attract and retain Hmong consumers, Hmong suggest 1) facility information, specifically for larger travel groups and parking; 2) Hmong marketing through word of mouth, traditional and electronic, 3) packages and tours including Hmong travelers.
Title: Asian Pacific Students in Minnesota: Facts, not Fiction. Authors: Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans. Location: Saint Paul, MN. Year: 2012. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 46 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: (From the Executive Summary), according to the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) 2011 test results,66.1% and 54.4% of Asian Pacific students scored as proficient on the MCA reading and math tests, respectively. In comparison, 80.8% and 63.3% of White students were proficient in reading and math, respectively. This seemingly smaller achievement gap between Asian Pacific and White students has led to less attention and concern given to the needs of Asian Pacific students in Minnesota. However, researchers, community members, and educational professionals have long recognized that the reporting of aggregated data for Asian Pacific students is misleading and masks educational disparities experienced within the Asian Pacific population in Minnesota.In response, this report disaggregates MCA data for Asian Pacific students by language spoken at home, ethnicity, income level, English proficiency, and mobility. Through such analysis, this report providesnew understandings about the academic performance of Asian Pacific studentsin Minnesota.
Title: State of the Asian Pacific Minnesotans Report. Authors: Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans. Location: Saint Paul, MN. Year: 2012. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 36 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: Every ten years, the United States of America goes about the process of counting or enumeration of its population. This census is constitutionally mandated as a way to apportion the members of the United States House of Representatives. The census is also used to distribute federal funding to local communities. In the 2010 Census, approximately 74% of households returned their census form by mail, the remaining households were counted by census workers walking neighborhoods throughout the United States. Minnesota’s response rate was 75%.The census is the most comprehensive source of demographic data on the US population and tells us much about our nation’s people and its change over time. This report presents the current state of Asian Pacific Minnesotans, what our population is, and our social and economic status. The data herein provides a snapshot of the lives we lead and is evidence of the struggles and successes we face. In black and white numbers, it tells us who we are, but it does not tell us who we will be.
Title: Southeast Asians at a Glance: Statistical Profile 2010. Source: SEARAC. Location: Washington D.C. Year: 2011. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 21 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: This report provides a range of statistical data pertaining to Southeast Asian American ethnic groups across the United States from the 2010 census. The following general categories of variables are included in the data tables: population, immigration and naturalization; education; income and employment and housing.
Title: Tobacco Use in Minnesota: A Quantitative Survey of Cambodian, Hmong, Lao and Vietnamese Community Members. Source: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, ClearWay MinnesotaSM, Asian Pacific Tobacco-Free Coalition of Minnesota, Southeast Asian Refugee Community Home. Location: Minneapolis, MN. Year: 2009. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 64 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: This report presents results of the DREGAN quantitative research initiative, a survey of members of the Southeast Asian communities in Minnesota (Cambodians, Hmong, Lao and Vietnamese). The research project aimed to determine the prevalence of smoking among minnesota’s Southeast Asian communities using culturally appropriate survey methods. An additional goal was to describe knowledge of the harms of tobacco use, attempts to quit and exposure to secondhand smoke among these communities.
Title: Voices of those Impacted by the Economic Downturn and Recommendations for Economic Recovery for the Asian American Worker. Authors: Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans. Location: Saint Paul, MN. Year: 2009. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 39 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: (From the Executive Summary): this report offers a picture of the challenges facing Asian refugees and immigrants in today's bleak job market. Their stories put a face on the crisis.
Title: Dropout Prevention: Stories and Ideas from Hmong and Lao High School Students in North Minneapolis Authors: Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans. Location: Saint Paul, MN. Year: 2008. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 26 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: (From the Executive Summary): Asian Pacific Islander students as a group are staying in school and finishing school at about the same rate as the statewide rate of 3%. Even in Minneapolis and St. Paul, the two cities with the largest enrollment of API students, the rates are the same as in St. Paul (10%) or slightly better as in Minneapolis (7% vs. 12%). Thus, at first glance administrators, educators, and policymakers might be tempted to look at API students and think that they are doing well. This perception is wrong and it jeopardizes API students, their families, and community. When these rates are compared to the statewide rate, twice as many API students in St. Paul and three times as many API students in Minneapolis dropout. The impact of these statistics are damaging and they are not acceptable.
Title: 1990 Census of Population: Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Authors: U.S. Census Bureau. Source: U.S. Census Bureau. Location: Washington, D.C. Year: 1990. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 332 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: A source book of statistical tables pertaining to Asian ethnic groups in the 1990 U.S. Census.
Title: Handbook for Teaching Khmer-Speaking Students Author: Southeast Asia Community Resource Center. Source: Southeast Asia Community Resource Center. Location: Rancho Cordova, CA Year: 1988. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 166 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: A handbook with cultural and pedagogical information to assist educators working with Khmer-speaking students.
Title: Cambodia: Cultural Background for ESOL Teachers. Author: Tuong Hung Nguyen. Source: N.A. Location: N.A. Year: N.A. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 5 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: This short article provides cultural information intended to assist educators working with Cambodian-origin students.
Title: Thailand: Cultural Background for ESL/EFL Teachers. Author: Tuong Hung Nguyen. Source: N.A. Location: N.A. Year: N.A. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 5 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: This short article provides cultural information intended to assist educators working with Thai-origin students.
Title: Hmong mental health An assessment of mental health needs and services for the Hmong community in Ramsey County. Author: Mao Thao, Amy Leite, & Julie Atella. Source: Wilder Foundation. Location: Saint Paul, MN. Year: 2010. Additional Source Information: N.A. Pagination: 92 pages. Format: PDF
Abstract: The Children and Family Services (CFS) division of the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation and Ramsey County’s Children’s Mental Health Services (CMHS) contracted with Wilder Research to evaluate the mental health needs of the Hmong community, and the availability and accessibility of mental health services for Hmong youth and adults in Ramsey County. Research questions included: What is the scope of mental health issues within the Hmong community? Is there a need for Western mental health services in Ramsey County? What disparities exist? How can the mental health system reduce disparities for Hmong children, youth and adults? What barriers does the Hmong community face in accessing mental health services? What barriers prevent Hmong children, youth, and adults from being identified and referred for mental health services? Where and how do Hmong families access mental health services? What is the availability of mental health services within Ramsey County for the Hmong community? What mental health services are effective? How can those services be improved? What mental health services are most needed? How can social and health systems within Ramsey County be more responsive to the mental health needs of the Hmong community?
