The Hmong Dancing Club is new to the high school this year. The meetings take place every Thursday from 3:15-4 p.m. in E120. The goal for the club is for people to learn more about Hmong culture, while also forming a safe space to learn and grow for any students who might want or need it.

Hmong dancing is used to connect with heritage, express community and preserve culture. Each person comes with their own stories and these views can be used to make connections.

“It’s a way to build community with not only other Hmong people, but people in general,” said Bailey Okoroji, junior and social media manager of the club.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, “there were about 260,000 Hmong Americans living in the U.S. in 2010. The majority lived in California, Wisconsin and Minnesota.” The number has since gone up to 360,000 since 2023. The increase in population can help Hmong people connect with one another, leading them to create or join communities where they can feel welcome.

“I danced at Larkin Dance Studio in St. Paul, and I feel like I got to learn to say more Hmong words while also being surrounded by a lot more Hmong people,” junior Naomi Vang described.

Hmong dancing usually occurs at different events like the Hmong New Year or at the Cultural Fashion Show during BLAST week. The dances are performed in traditional clothing and are often used to honor ancestors, making the performances both beautiful and meaningful.

“I had Mai as a student and I saw her dance in the cultural fashion show last year and I thought it would be a great opportunity to oversee a new club,” said Abby Yates, mentor and social studies teacher.

Cultural heritage can play a huge role in symbolizing what people think of themselves, the people around them and the world around them. Diverse cultures are a huge part in forming communities, introducing different perspectives and ideas.

Okoroji described how being someone with mixed heritage, it’s impossible to be one part of her culture without the other and how they are both very important parts of her identity, making her the person she is today.

The Hmong Dancing Club combines a love of dance with the hope for a safe space and a sense of community. With time, this club could hopefully become a permanent part of student life at the high school.