Ep 3. Hmong Americans and the Secret War

The United Shades of America season 4 episode 3, titled "Hmong Americans and the Secret War," takes viewers on a journey through the often-overlooked history of the Hmong people in America. Host W. Kamau Bell meets with various Hmong Americans to learn about their experiences and why they fled their homeland in Laos to seek refuge in the United States.

The episode delves into the complex history of the Hmong people and their involvement in the Vietnam War. As Bell speaks with Hmong veterans and their families, he learns about the pivotal role they played in assisting the American forces in the conflict. He also discovers the tragic aftermath of the war, which saw many Hmong people targeted for persecution and even genocide by the communist regime in Laos.

Throughout the episode, Bell explores the challenges faced by Hmong people in America, including poverty, discrimination, and a lack of access to healthcare and education. He also discusses the ways in which the Hmong community has worked to preserve their culture and heritage, despite the many obstacles they have faced.

One particularly poignant moment in the episode comes when Bell meets with a Hmong woman who runs a community center for older Hmong Americans. Through their conversation, viewers gain insight into the struggles many Hmong elders face in adjusting to life in a new country, as well as the importance of preserving cultural traditions.

Overall, "Hmong Americans and the Secret War" is a powerful episode that sheds light on an often-overlooked community in the United States. Through the firsthand accounts of Hmong Americans and their families, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by immigrants in America, as well as the strength and resilience of the Hmong people in the face of adversity.