Apr 1st @ 1:30
LSC 710
The Disappearing Hmong Language: The Effects of English on Hmong Children’s Heritage Language and Their Relationship with Their Parents
The purpose of this study is to gain insights into the experiences of Hmong parents and their children regarding the American educational system. It seeks to make heard the voices of young Hmong adults and their parents and attempts to gain a better understanding of the impact of the use of English on Hmong students’ heritage language. It also seeks to understand how the use of English affects the relationships between Hmong students, their parents and families. It is hoped that the findings will raise awareness of increasing crises and issues in the Hmong community, especially the language and culture loss of the Hmong youth. Ultimately, the goal of this study is to foster the discussion of positive solutions for the Hmong community in order to improve their educational attainment, income and quality of life, and more importantly to find solutions to help connect Hmong youth to their culture and maintain their heritage language. In addition, the lessons learned from the Hmong refugee experience can help to improve the other language minority groups, immigrants, and current or future refugee families in the U.S.