Luther College to Host Events Highlighting Asian American, Pacific Islander Experiences

Our newsroom runs on more than coffee and craft beer — it runs on you. Support Decorah News' local reporting today. DECORAH — Luther College will celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in April with lectures and events showcasing the breadth and depth of AAPI experiences. The events are open to the public. "From student-led cultural events to our keynote on Hmong history and immigration, each gathering invites us to learn, reflect and celebrate together," said the executive team of the Asian Students and Allies Association at Luther College. "We hope you will join us to honor AAPI stories, challenge ourselves to think more critically about identity and justice, and build a more inclusive community here in Decorah." Mai Na M. Lee, an associate professor of history and Asian American studies at the University of Minnesota, will serve as keynote speaker. Her lecture, "Subverting the Blood Sacrifice Narrative: How the Hmong Arrived in the Midwest and Became Targets of ICE Arrest and Deportation," begins at 7 p.m. April 29 in the Center for Faith and Life Recital Hall. The lecture will examine U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia that led to Hmong displacement and resettlement in the United States, with a focus on the Midwest. It will also explore why Hmong communities have become targets of Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrest and deportation efforts in Minnesota in the past year. Brian Caton, an associate professor of history at Luther College, said the topic has local relevance. "Decorah was one of the destinations for Hmong and other Southeast Asian refugees arriving in the 1970s. Many Decorah families hosted refugee families; local churches provided space for English as a Second Language classes and other support; and some land along Pulpit Rock Road was given to refugee families to raise crops," Caton said. "Most of these families relocated after a few years, many to the Twin Cities, where their racial identity can make them targets for ICE arrests, regardless of citizenship status." Residents are also invited to a Cultural Community Connection event at 5 p.m. April 14 at The Landing Market, 211 College Drive. Members of the Asian Students and Allies Association will serve a Pacific Islander-themed meal of grilled chicken, pineapple and green peppers over rice, along with dried fruit chips. The cost is $10 per person, or $5 for students with ID and children 17 and younger. No reservations are required. A fashion show will begin at 5:30 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Asian Students and Allies Association and the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support. While May is nationally recognized as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Luther College hosts its events in April before the end of the academic year. Fresh stories, delivered! Sign up for the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and stay informed, inspired, and ahead of the curve.