Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers recently signed a bipartisan bill into law that mandates Wisconsin schools to include Asian American and Hmong American histories in their curriculum. The bill signing took place at an elementary school in Wausau, a city with a significant Hmong population.
Wausau is home to approximately 4,700 Hmong residents, making up 12% of the city's population. This makes Wausau the city with the highest per-capita Hmong population in both the state and the country, as reported by the Hmong American Center.
In his statement, Governor Evers emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of the Hmong and Asian American communities to Wisconsin's history, culture, and economy. He highlighted the need to celebrate shared histories and honor the individuals who have shaped the state.
The Hmong people faced persecution as an ethnic minority in their native lands in China, leading them to seek refuge in countries like Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. Many Hmong individuals fought for the United States during the Vietnam War and later resettled in various parts of the U.S., including California, Minneapolis, and central Wisconsin.
Wisconsin is home to a significant Hmong population of 50,000, ranking third in the country behind California and Minnesota. The new law adds Hmong and Asian American histories to the existing curriculum requirements for K-12 schools in the state.
The primary objective of this legislation is to enhance awareness and understanding of Hmong and Asian American histories, cultures, and traditions among students. The measure received widespread support in the Legislature, with endorsements from the state education department, the state teachers' union, and the Wisconsin Council of Churches. Notably, there were no registered opponents to the bill.
