Press Releases

Congressman Glenn Grothman (WI-06) has introduced H. Res. 691, a bipartisan resolution recognizing the cultural and historical significance of the Hmong New Year.

Grothman is joined by Representatives Bryan Steil (WI-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ron Kind (WI-03), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Tom Tiffany (WI-07), Mike Gallagher (WI-08), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Dean Phillips (MN-03), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Jim Costa (CA-16), Scott Peters (CA-52), Sara Jacobs (CA-53) Judy Chu (CA-27), Michelle Steel (CA-48), David Valadao (CA-21), and Young Kim (CA-39).

“Wisconsin is the state with the 3^rd highest Hmong population and I am privileged to represent one of Wisconsin’s largest Hmong communities. Each year, I attend the New Year celebrations in my district and am looking forward to attending them again this year in places like Oshkosh and Sheboygan,” said Grothman. “These celebrations of thanksgiving are an honor to attend – the food, music, and dance make these festivals truly special events. The Hmong people will always be dear to my heart for the important role they played helping the United States fight communism in the Vietnam war. I am glad that both sides of the aisle have come together to recognize Hmong Americans’ significant role in our communities and their pursuit of the American Dream.” 

“The Hmong New Year is a significant cultural tradition in Minnesota’s Fourth District, which is home to our nation’s largest Hmong population,” said Congresswoman McCollum. “With this resolution, I join my Hmong neighbors and constituents in recognizing the holiday, giving thanks for the harvest, and celebrating the year to come.”

Congresswoman Jacobs said, “Hmong New Year is celebrated across San Diego and I am proud to recognize this important holiday with my colleagues from both parties in this resolution. I join my Hmong neighbors in giving thanks and celebrating the year to come.”

“I am proud to join my colleagues in a bipartisan effort to recognize the cultural and historical significance of the upcoming Hmong New Year—a time to honor their ancestors and give thanks for the harvest. I wish everyone who observes the holiday a safe and happy celebration,” said Congressman Fitzgerald.

“I am honored to join Rep. Grothman and many of my colleagues on this resolution to recognize the celebration of the Hmong New Year and the significant contribution the Hmong people have made in Wisconsin communities and across America. This recognition is well deserved and I wish a very happy new year to all who celebrate this holiday,” said Congressman Tiffany.

"Here in Wisconsin, our Hmong neighbors are an essential part of our state's identity and valued members of our communities," said Rep. Ron Kind. "I'm glad to join this resolution to recognize and celebrate the significance of the Hmong New Year and wish all those who observe this holiday a very happy New Year."

“In the Milwaukee-area, the Hmong New Year holds special meaning because of our vibrant Hmong communities and the rich traditions and culture they preserve. It is a time to give thanks and to enjoy family and community, things that are even more valuable in the midst of this pandemic,” said Congresswoman Moore.

Congressman Pocan added, “I am once again proud to support this resolution honoring the Hmong community in Wisconsin and nationwide. The annual Hmong New Year celebrations are a treasured part of Wisconsin’s community and culture and we welcome the opportunity to recognize this wonderful tradition.”

“Hmong New Year is one of the greatest and most valued traditions in our San Joaquin Valley. Each year, this celebration draws 100,000 people to honor the rich culture of the Hmong people and welcome the New Year. I am proud to co-sponsor this bipartisan resolution that recognizes the importance of Hmong heritage, and it’s an honor to represent the Hmong community,” said Congressman Costa.

The Hmong New Year is traditionally celebrated at the end of the rice harvest season in Laos and Southeast Asia in late November and early December. In the United States, the Hmong New Year traditions have carried over, occurring from October through December, and have become significant celebrations for Hmong Americans and many others.

Click here for the full text of the resolution.

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U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) is serving his fourth term representing Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.