An Art and Culture Charity Festival by Hmong Bangkok and Network Association [ เวอร์ชั่นภาษาไทย ]
The Hmong ethnic group possesses a history that spans no less than 3,000 years, and historical evidence suggests that they once inhabited along the Yellow River, situated in present-day Hubei Province, China. Within this fertile valley, they primarily engaged in rice cultivation and agriculture before embarking on a gradual southward migration towards the Indo-China and China Seas. In contemporary times, the majority of Hmong people reside in the southern regions of China, followed by communities in Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. Furthermore, a portion of the Hmong population can be found on the continents of North America, Europe, Australia, and Japan.
Despite their dispersion to various corners of the world, the Hmong ethnic group remains steadfastly proud of their distinctive cultural identity and heritage, which has been faithfully transmitted across generations. This cultural heritage encompasses language, traditional attire, musical instruments, way of life, architectural designs of their homes, belief-related customs, and ceremonial rituals. Therefore, the Hmong ethnic group is indisputably recognized as one of the most culturally distinguished and invaluable communities, exemplifying a rich and enduring cultural legacy.
While the culture of the Hmong ethnic group may undergo changes over time due to the influences and interactions with the local cultures of each respective country, the new generation of Hmong people remains keenly aware of the value of their own cultural identity. They are committed to preserving and revitalizing these enduring cultural traditions. As a result, the Hmong community has come together to organize cultural events between countries, such as inviting Hmong from various countries to join in celebrating cultural festivities like the New Year. A prime example of this is the Hmong Bangkok Festival, which focuses on art and culture, organized by the Hmong Bangkok and Network Association.
Over the past three events, the association has extended invitations to singers, traditional Hmong clothing designers, artists, performers, and Hmong enthusiasts from the United States, France, Australia, Spain, Laos, Vietnam, and China to participate. The use of modern communication technologies has significantly facilitated communication, public relations, and cooperation among participants.
This year, the Hmong Bangkok and Network Association has prepared an event called “Hmong Bangkok Festival 2024 Art & Culture” on December 2-3, 2023, at Bangkok World, Siam Amazing Park. The event serves as a platform for Hmong brothers and sisters living in Bangkok and nearby provinces to meet and socialize. It aims to preserve and promote traditional cultural activities and arts, which are the cultural heritage of the Hmong people. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for Hmong artists and singers to perform both traditional and contemporary Hmong songs. The event also includes a prestigious beauty pageant to empower Hmong women to showcase their strength, knowledge, various abilities, and promote social equality. It celebrates and promotes Hmong culture, strengthens unity, and is one of the charitable activities under the theme of “Elegance with Unique Grace, a Radiant Embrace in the Heart of the Metropolis” under the event name “Miss Hmong Bangkok International 2024.” The winners of the competition will represent the Hmong community in future activities with various public and private organizations. Furthermore, to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional achievements and contributions of Hmong individuals on an international scale, the organizing committee has introduced a special event, the “Hmong Hall of Fame 2024.”
In addition to the cultural activities, the event also includes a product showcase featuring traditional clothing, jewelry, and local cuisine presented in fair-style booths. This aspect of the event aims to boost the local economy by promoting Hmong-made products. There will also be a cultural exhibition that showcases the unique aspects of Hmong culture. This exhibition serves as a platform for the younger generation in Bangkok to learn and immerse themselves in the beautiful cultural heritage of the Hmong people. It instills a sense of pride in their identity and encourages them to continue preserving and passing down these traditions.
Furthermore, all proceeds from the event, after covering the expenses, will be directed toward charitable activities, such as supporting the community. Over the past six years, the association has initiated over 80 charitable projects. These projects include mentoring and educational support for students, scholarships for those in need at the university level, and donations of essential goods to disaster-stricken individuals, such as flood or fire victims.
The association has also organized language and culture exchange programs through the “Hmong Student Buddy Day” project, which brings together Hmong students from Thailand and the United States to foster cultural understanding and friendships. This project occurs annually, with a minimum of two events per year. Additionally, the association has offered English language tutoring programs to prepare young individuals for overseas education opportunities.
Objectives
- To celebrate the New Year Festival and strengthen the bonds among Hmong people living in Bangkok, its metropolitan area, and other provinces throughout Thailand, as well as Hmong individuals from different countries.
- To preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Hmong people, which has a history of over 3,000 years, ensuring its continued existence and raising awareness in the cosmopolitan society of Bangkok.
- To honor and commend outstanding individuals of Hmong descent who have gained international recognition and contributed significantly to the welfare of Hmong communities worldwide.
- To provide opportunities for and encourage young Hmong women to demonstrate their knowledge and abilities in the realm of creativity.
- To stimulate economic development within the Hmong community.
- To promote education by offering scholarships to Hmong students.
- To generate income for the charitable activities of the association.