The first Hmong Studies program in the Western United States could be launched as early as the fall 2016 semester at Fresno State University.
The Central Valley is the home of the second largest Hmong population in the country.
A decision is scheduled to be made on the program this spring. If approved, it would be just the fifth Hmong Studies program in the U.S.
The minor would be offered through the school’s Linguistics Department in the College of Arts and Humanities.
“Students will learn to read, write and speak Hmong from beginning to advanced levels, which will also provide a better foundation in academic writing,” said Linguistics faculty member Dr. Kao-Ly Yang. “They will also acquire knowledge of the Hmong culture, literature and traditions to enhance their capability and understanding of the challenges that face Hmong communities and expand their experience in the Hmong world.”
Fresno State presently offers minors in Asian American studies and Asian Studies, and a minor and certificate in Southeast Asian Studies.
18 units in Hmong culture, history and language would be offered.
Each year more than 100,000 people from throughout California attend Fresno’s Hmong New Year celebration.
“The Hmong minor is significant to our region and our state because it manifests Fresno State’s focus on cultural diversity and dialogue, and our commitment to educating world citizens who act and think locally to find innovative solutions,” said Dr. Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval, who last month was named dean of the college, effective Jan. 1.
Fresno State today is also taking part in the opening of the Hmongstory40 project that runs December 12 – January 2 at the Fresno Fairgrounds. Jiménez-Sandoval will join Fresno State President Joseph I. Castro at the opening ceremony. The public exhibit will be open daily from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. including the Hmong International New Year celebration Dec. 26-Jan. 1. It will be free except during the celebration which has a general admission of $4.
