The Educational Experiences and Cultural Identity of Second-Generation Lao and Hmong American Men in California's Central Valley

• In Event: 63.084 - MTCC Roundtable Session 25
  In Roundtable Session: 63.084-8 - Asian American and Pacific Islander Experiences Across Educational Contexts

Abstract

Education is the foundation of success for second-generation Southeast Asians and is the greatest factor for higher wages (Sakamoto & Woo, 2007). The second-generation of most immigrant groups are reported to have higher educational, life aspirations and attainment than their parents (Phommasa, 2016). In California’s Central Valley , the educational trend for second-generation Lao and Hmong-American men do not reflect those findings. This qualitative study explored the educational experiences and cultural identity of 28 second-generation Lao and Hmong-American men in the Central Valley. Five main themes emerged: a) the Telemachus Effect, b) racism, c) environment during the formative years, d) educational experiences, and e) American born identity. This study concluded with a need for future academic research and practice.

Authors

• Thianchayphet Phannaphob, Fresno City College - Fresno

• Nancy Akhavan, California State University - Fresno