Continuing the Iu Mien Legacy

I am the daughter of Iu Mien refugees—a people who survived war, displacement, and the challenge of building a life in a new country.

In 2025, we marked 50 years of Iu Mien resettlement in the United States—a reflection of our community’s resilience and growth across generations.

Growing up in Lodi, it was rare for me to meet another Mien person—or anyone who knew what “Iu Mien” was. That absence created a gap in my identity.

Years later, while searching for a Mien language class, I found Iu Mien Community Services—and eventually joined their team as Operations Manager. 

Through programs like Healthy Village, I’ve been able to reconnect with my language, culture, and community in a way I didn’t have growing up.

That’s why I’m fundraising for IMCS this Big Day of Giving.

IMCS creates spaces where our elders are honored, our language is shared, and our youth can grow up with a stronger sense of who they are. It also does critical work to advocate for the visibility and representation of Iu Mien people—ensuring our stories, voices, and presence are seen, valued, and remembered.

Your support helps keep our community connected, supported, and thriving.

If you’re able to give, thank you so much! If not, please share our story and this fundraiser.

This is how we continue the Iu Mien legacy—together!