"We aim to continue uplifting those who feel as though their identity is not beautiful."

By: Lana Lee

Repeat after me: I am Hmong

When it comes to how others see us, they often say first impressions matter most. We usually talk about our achievements and qualities, but there's something we tend to forget—our identity and where we come from. Sometimes, people look at us and put us in boxes, especially mislabeling Asians like us. It's like our true selves get lost in the mix. 

Early 1960s, the Hmong villagers migrated from parts of Laos and Thailand to the U.S. and other parts of the world, after the Secret War and the grand genocide of the Hmong people. Now known, North Carolina is the 4th state where one of the largest Hmong population had settled. You’ll find the Hmong community mainly in Hickory and Morganton, North Carolina. 

In the face of profound loss and upheaval, the Hmong community endured the pain of losing loved ones and the familiar lives they once knew. A resilient group of individuals, we collectively embraced the promise of the American dream, vowing to forge ahead in our journey and honor the legacy of our ancestors in the present. It is within this shared commitment that a dedicated group of women, fueled by the same aspirations, discovered their calling to guide Hmong women of all ages. 

Meet President Sendra Yang, the visionary leader behind the North Carolina Hmong Women's Association, Inc. (NCHWA). With a determination to challenge stereotypes, she has successfully established a secure haven for the Hmong community that continues to endure. Armed with a Doctor of Pharmacy, Sendra brings a wealth of expertise spanning various fields, from residency and clinical work to medical information and the scientific aspects of pharmacy. After welcoming her first child, Sendra decided to settle her family back in North Carolina. Her current passion revolves around fostering unity and creating opportunities within the Hmong community. 

Co-founder Duabhav Lee, although initially hesitant when offered a position in establishing this non-profit organization, wholeheartedly committed herself to bringing her expertise to inspire young people. She is a former community organizer who collaborated with the mayor during high school, organized initiatives addressing disparities among teenagers, and worked with the youth branch of Hmong Southeast Puavpheej Inc. 

The board members include Honey Yang-Estrada, Brittany X. Vang, and Director of Information Service Linda Yang, along with numerous interns and volunteers who have discovered their alignment with the organization. 

In a recent interview, the Co-founders of NCHWA, Lee asserts, “Our generation has the time to feel,” and NCHWA provides a platform for sharing stories that many young people find challenging to voice. This organization genuinely recognizes mental health as an anomaly within the Hmong community—something new that the Hmong people are still navigating, often with little experience or awareness. Beyond mental health, NCHWA serves as a checkpoint for the Hmong community to openly discuss their ongoing life struggles, fostering a sense of connection and support. 

How has this organization grown? Yang passionately expresses, “Establishing this organization opened my eyes to the presence of Hmong women like me who aspire to give back to the community... and the time is now. It's truly remarkable to witness volunteers and interns dedicating their time to make this vision a reality. Since the inception of this organization, it brings me joy to observe like-minded Hmong women stepping forward to fill roles that were previously absent.” 

Repeat after me: I am Hmong. 

People often discuss healing as if it were a bandage placed on a long-bleeding scar. However, it is our movement to embrace these scars and demonstrate to the world that we are unafraid to be Hmong. 

NCHWA stands as the pioneering non-profit, being the first and only Hmong women's organization in North Carolina to forge this testament. 

If you believe this resonates with your passion, there are still available internships and volunteer opportunities. Let me share Lee's perspective on Brittney X. Vang, who initially started as an intern and has since progressed to a role directly contributing to the board: 

“Brittney now takes charge of projects, oversees interns and volunteers, and accomplishes remarkable tasks within the board of directors. Witnessing her growth is truly inspiring.” 

Today, we are seen, heard, and loved by these women and others, and we aim to continue uplifting those who feel as though their identity is not beautiful. This also applies to the men, young adults, and children who have sprung from the beautiful culture we tightly grasp.