This project involves the dissertation research of an anthropology student from UCLA who is studying the adaptation of Laotian Hmong immigrants to California. The project involves interviewing and participant observation of evolving gender roles and awareness of the political situation they confront. By participating in a gardening project and teaching photography to Hmong children, the student will study their perceptions of changing gender roles and conflict management in work settings and their interaction with government institutions. The underlying problem is to see which aspects of their traditional identity the immigrants will try to maintain while adapting to new gender, work, and political roles. This research is important because the Hmong immigrants are a unique group, having migrated to the US in response to the Vietnam war. Understanding the details of how they are adapting to US culture and society will help policy makers deal with the immigrant community at large.
