Storytelling Is the CORE of Hmong Culture (feat. Jeremy Thao)

Today, we have the pleasure of bringing the Atlanta-based filmmaker Jeremy Thao on the show. He is the director of an excellent short film called Wokman, which is about a single day in a Chinese restaurant. Now, Jeremy is Hmong. Why did he choose a Chinese family? Well, you’ll have to wait and see. What you need to know about Wokman is that it’s totally blowing up right now. It was in the Atlanta Film Festival, which is a big deal because it’s one of only film festivals in the world that qualifies for Academy Awards in all three short film categories.So yeah, we’ve got a great episode for you today. One of the best  parts is when Jeremy talks about storytelling. He actually feels the most Hmong when he’s telling stories. Why? Because telling stories is encoded within the DNA of the Hmong people. Whether it be through oral traditions or story cloths, the Hmong have always used narrative to illustrate their history.But as Jeremy shares in this episode, preserving Hmong history has been a challenge, because the Hmong had no written language until the early 1950s when Christian missionaries and Hmong advisers created the Romanized Popular Alphabet (RPA) in Laos. The RPA is notable for how it communicates pronunciation and focuses less on the words themselves.You’re gonna a learn a lot in this episode. You’re gonna be inspired. You’re gonna be moved. And we’re so excited to share it with you. Remember to tell a friend about the show. Remember, you can also find Hmonglish on YouTube! Be sure to like and subscribe on there, and leave a comment if you feel inclined to do so.For all updates on the show, follow us on Instagram @hmonglishpod.-Hmonglish is brought to you by Herizon Builders.Locally owned and operated in the heart of St. Paul, Minnesota, Herizon have been the go-to experts in storm damage for roofing, siding, and gutters for 8 years.Their services range from damage assessment, insurance claims, material consultations, repair, and restoration.Herizon Builders, is passionate about ensuring every homeowner feels valued, providing unparalleled service at every stage of the home improvement journey.The cornerstone of Herizon’s business philosophy is giving back to the community. Over the past 7 years, they have donated over $27,000 to local initiatives, underscoring their dedication to making a positive impact.Get started with Herizon Builders today and request a quote online at herizonbuilders.com or call 651-447-0212