2025 workshops
National Hmong Disability Virtual Conference
“Building for Tomorrow at the Intersection of Hmong Culture & Disability”
| workshop #1
| Exploring Identity at the Intersection of Hmong Culture and Disability
| Type: Panel Workshop
| Type: Panel Workshop
Description: This workshop will dive into the complex layers of identity where Hmong culture and disability intersect. Through powerful personal stories and insights, our panelists will shed light on the unique experiences and challenges faced by Hmong individuals with disabilities as they navigate cultural expectations, community perceptions, and societal views. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how cultural dynamics shape experiences of disability and identity within the Hmong community, fostering empathy and awareness that can inform advocacy and support.
The workshop aims to:
The workshop aims to:
- Highlight Underrepresented Voices: Provide a platform for panelists to share experiences often overlooked, giving voice to the unique challenges faced within the Hmong disability community.
- Explore Cultural Nuances and Strengths: Examine how cultural identity shapes disability experiences, recognizing the strengths within Hmong culture that support resilience and community.
- Empower Advocacy and Inclusion: Present actionable strategies and pathways for advocacy, inspiring participants to contribute to disability justice and create more inclusive spaces.
- Provide Actionable Insights for Change: Engage in meaningful discussions that lead to practical solutions, empowering both Hmong individuals and allies to make positive contributions toward a more inclusive future.
| Facilitator
The image features an Asian Hmong woman, Panou Xiong, with long, wavy hair and a confident smile. She is dressed in a black blouse, which contrasts with the softly blurred gray background. Her expression is warm and approachable, with soft lighting enhancing her features for a flattering look.
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| Panou Xiong – Disability Justice and Community Advocate
Panou Xiong is a dedicated mother, wife, and passionate community advocate committed to empowering individuals with disabilities and fostering a culture of inclusion. Drawing from her personal experiences as a caregiver and her professional expertise, Panou has devoted her career to creating meaningful change in the lives of individuals and families navigating the challenges of disability, mental health, and co-occurring conditions.
With extensive experience in social services, Panou has worked within the 245D programs, providing critical support to individuals with developmental disabilities (DD/IDD) and expanding her knowledge to address the needs of those living with mental illness (MI), chemical dependency (CD), and dual diagnoses.
Panou’s work is driven by an unwavering passion to break down the stigma surrounding disabilities and educate communities on the invaluable potential of individuals with disabilities to lead happy, fulfilled, and supported lives.
As a champion for systemic change, Panou is committed to developing and sharing resources that empower individuals, families, and communities. She firmly believes that education and training are powerful tools for breaking down barriers and fostering a society where inclusion and understanding thrive. Her leadership is exemplified by her appointment by the Governor of Minnesota to the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Committee for the Office of the Ombudsman, where she works to advance disability justice and advocate for equitable policies.
Panou’s dedication extends to her role as a workshop facilitator, where she inspires participants to embrace actionable strategies that promote inclusivity and improve community support systems. By sharing practical insights and fostering meaningful conversations, Panou strives to equip others with the tools needed to build a more compassionate, equitable world.
Panou Xiong is a dedicated mother, wife, and passionate community advocate committed to empowering individuals with disabilities and fostering a culture of inclusion. Drawing from her personal experiences as a caregiver and her professional expertise, Panou has devoted her career to creating meaningful change in the lives of individuals and families navigating the challenges of disability, mental health, and co-occurring conditions.
With extensive experience in social services, Panou has worked within the 245D programs, providing critical support to individuals with developmental disabilities (DD/IDD) and expanding her knowledge to address the needs of those living with mental illness (MI), chemical dependency (CD), and dual diagnoses.
Panou’s work is driven by an unwavering passion to break down the stigma surrounding disabilities and educate communities on the invaluable potential of individuals with disabilities to lead happy, fulfilled, and supported lives.
As a champion for systemic change, Panou is committed to developing and sharing resources that empower individuals, families, and communities. She firmly believes that education and training are powerful tools for breaking down barriers and fostering a society where inclusion and understanding thrive. Her leadership is exemplified by her appointment by the Governor of Minnesota to the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Committee for the Office of the Ombudsman, where she works to advance disability justice and advocate for equitable policies.
Panou’s dedication extends to her role as a workshop facilitator, where she inspires participants to embrace actionable strategies that promote inclusivity and improve community support systems. By sharing practical insights and fostering meaningful conversations, Panou strives to equip others with the tools needed to build a more compassionate, equitable world.
| Panelist
The image shows Maychee Mua, an Asian Hmong woman with shoulder-length wavy blonde hair, smiling confidently against a neutral background. She wears a black outfit paired with a light gray blazer, giving her a professional yet approachable look. Her hands rest casually in her pockets, adding a relaxed touch to her posture.
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| Maychee Mua – Disability Inclusion Advocate, Innovator, and Author
Maychee Mua is a trailblazing public servant, passionate advocate, and empowering leader committed to fostering equity, inclusion, and systemic change. With over 20 years of experience spanning early education and healthcare, Maychee has dedicated her life to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for individuals and families in Minnesota and beyond.
In addition to her government roles, Maychee contributes her expertise as a board member for several nonprofit organizations, championing community-focused initiatives. Since 2001, she has been deeply involved in the early education and healthcare sectors, making a lasting impact on countless lives. As the coauthor of the beloved Hmong children's book "I Am a Hmong-American Child," Maychee celebrates cultural identity and belonging. This transformative experience ignited her passion for public policy, particularly in healthcare, where she focuses on ensuring equitable access for all Minnesotans and addressing the unique needs of children.
Her career is defined by impactful milestones, including her instrumental role in launching Minnesota's first autism Medicaid program for children under 21, paving the way for countless families to access critical care. Her policy work also extends to housing, behavioral health, and advocacy for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, demonstrating her commitment to addressing diverse community needs.
Maychee is well-versed in navigating systemic challenges associated with cultural differences and stigma. She has significantly contributed to Minnesota's policy and legislative efforts. By sharing her personal journey as a parent advocating for neurodivergent loved ones, including herself, she continues to aid state government and cultural communities across Minnesota in shifting perspectives on acceptance and understanding how to be more inclusive.
Maychee’s academic achievements include a nursing degree, a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a minor in Family Studies, and a Master’s in Public Administration. Outside of her professional accomplishments, she is a loving mother of three and continues to shape policies and programs that make a lasting impact.
As a panelist for UHD’s 2025 National Virtual Hmong Disability Conference, Maychee brings her profound insights, compassionate leadership, and inspiring vision. Her presence will energize and empower participants, sparking transformative conversations that celebrate diversity, challenge stigma, and champion disability justice.
Maychee Mua is a trailblazing public servant, passionate advocate, and empowering leader committed to fostering equity, inclusion, and systemic change. With over 20 years of experience spanning early education and healthcare, Maychee has dedicated her life to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for individuals and families in Minnesota and beyond.
In addition to her government roles, Maychee contributes her expertise as a board member for several nonprofit organizations, championing community-focused initiatives. Since 2001, she has been deeply involved in the early education and healthcare sectors, making a lasting impact on countless lives. As the coauthor of the beloved Hmong children's book "I Am a Hmong-American Child," Maychee celebrates cultural identity and belonging. This transformative experience ignited her passion for public policy, particularly in healthcare, where she focuses on ensuring equitable access for all Minnesotans and addressing the unique needs of children.
Her career is defined by impactful milestones, including her instrumental role in launching Minnesota's first autism Medicaid program for children under 21, paving the way for countless families to access critical care. Her policy work also extends to housing, behavioral health, and advocacy for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, demonstrating her commitment to addressing diverse community needs.
Maychee is well-versed in navigating systemic challenges associated with cultural differences and stigma. She has significantly contributed to Minnesota's policy and legislative efforts. By sharing her personal journey as a parent advocating for neurodivergent loved ones, including herself, she continues to aid state government and cultural communities across Minnesota in shifting perspectives on acceptance and understanding how to be more inclusive.
Maychee’s academic achievements include a nursing degree, a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a minor in Family Studies, and a Master’s in Public Administration. Outside of her professional accomplishments, she is a loving mother of three and continues to shape policies and programs that make a lasting impact.
As a panelist for UHD’s 2025 National Virtual Hmong Disability Conference, Maychee brings her profound insights, compassionate leadership, and inspiring vision. Her presence will energize and empower participants, sparking transformative conversations that celebrate diversity, challenge stigma, and champion disability justice.
The image features Asian Hmong man Kong Lee with short, spiky black hair and a neutral expression. He wears a black t-shirt, giving off a relaxed, casual vibe, with a softly blurred background. Natural lighting casts a gentle glow on his face, highlighting his quiet confidence and focused gaze.
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| Kong Lee – Advocate, Social Worker, and Disability Rights Champion
Kong is a dedicated social justice advocate, husband, and father of two, residing on the West Coast. With a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from California State University, Fresno, and certifications in Adult Mental Health First Aid through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, Kong brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to his work.
As Vice President of the Asian Social Work Organization at CSU Fresno, Kong has been instrumental in fostering inclusion and support for diverse communities. His volunteer and professional experience with the Valley Center for the Blind in Fresno has further solidified his commitment to disability advocacy.
Kong’s personal journey as a visually impaired individual has deeply shaped his mission to dismantle the stigma surrounding disability. He views his experience as an opportunity to challenge misconceptions, inspire others, and demonstrate that disabilities do not define limitations but call for innovative perspectives.
Through his advocacy on campus and in the broader Hmong community, Kong works to increase awareness, improve access to resources, and foster meaningful change. He is passionate about empowering individuals, amplifying marginalized voices, and creating a more inclusive society for all.
Kong is a dedicated social justice advocate, husband, and father of two, residing on the West Coast. With a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from California State University, Fresno, and certifications in Adult Mental Health First Aid through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, Kong brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to his work.
As Vice President of the Asian Social Work Organization at CSU Fresno, Kong has been instrumental in fostering inclusion and support for diverse communities. His volunteer and professional experience with the Valley Center for the Blind in Fresno has further solidified his commitment to disability advocacy.
Kong’s personal journey as a visually impaired individual has deeply shaped his mission to dismantle the stigma surrounding disability. He views his experience as an opportunity to challenge misconceptions, inspire others, and demonstrate that disabilities do not define limitations but call for innovative perspectives.
Through his advocacy on campus and in the broader Hmong community, Kong works to increase awareness, improve access to resources, and foster meaningful change. He is passionate about empowering individuals, amplifying marginalized voices, and creating a more inclusive society for all.
The image features Asian Hmong woman Debbie Xiong-Wong standing outdoors in a lush garden, with medium-length wavy hair and a warm smile. She wears a floral v-neck dress, set against an autumn backdrop of vibrant yellow leaves and greenery. Gentle lighting creates a cheerful and natural atmosphere.
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| Debbie Xiong-Wong – Public Health Nurse, Advocate, and Deaf Community Leader
Debbie is a deaf Hmong woman who became deaf at the age of five due to an ear infection in both ears. She currently resides in Fairfax, Virginia, with her husband and their three children. Debbie is a dedicated professional working as a Public Health Nurse and School Nurse at the Fairfax Health Department, where she provides critical health support and education to her community.
Outside of her professional life, Debbie enjoys a rich and fulfilling personal life. She has a passion for creative pursuits like sewing and cooking, often crafting handmade items and experimenting with culinary delights in her kitchen. An avid lover of the outdoors, she spends her leisure time hiking and biking with her family, exploring the beauty of Virginia's trails and natural landscapes.
As a panelist at UHD’s 2025 National Virtual Hmong Disability Conference, Debbie shares her lived experiences, professional expertise, and passion for equity. She is excited to foster meaningful discussions that challenge stigma, celebrate diversity, and champion systemic change.
Debbie is a deaf Hmong woman who became deaf at the age of five due to an ear infection in both ears. She currently resides in Fairfax, Virginia, with her husband and their three children. Debbie is a dedicated professional working as a Public Health Nurse and School Nurse at the Fairfax Health Department, where she provides critical health support and education to her community.
Outside of her professional life, Debbie enjoys a rich and fulfilling personal life. She has a passion for creative pursuits like sewing and cooking, often crafting handmade items and experimenting with culinary delights in her kitchen. An avid lover of the outdoors, she spends her leisure time hiking and biking with her family, exploring the beauty of Virginia's trails and natural landscapes.
As a panelist at UHD’s 2025 National Virtual Hmong Disability Conference, Debbie shares her lived experiences, professional expertise, and passion for equity. She is excited to foster meaningful discussions that challenge stigma, celebrate diversity, and champion systemic change.
The image shows Billy Thao, an Asian Hmong man, standing outdoors with a backdrop of lush greenery and vibrant autumn foliage. He wears a dark navy knitted sweater with a textured pattern, complementing his warm, friendly smile. His dark hair is neatly styled, contributing to his approachable demeanor.
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| Billy Thao – Bridging Stories, Embracing Disabilities, and Empowering Voices with Art
Billy Thao is a Hmong American children's illustrator based in the Twin Cities. His debut picture book, "Yang Warriors," written by acclaimed author, Kao Kalia Yang, was published in 2021 by University of Minnesota Press. He had contributed his illustrations to the Northern Festival and the Society of Children's Books Writers and Illustrators; in addition, he exhibited his work within Minnesota. Thao works as a caregiver for 19 years with his older brother who was diagnosed with autism.
Billy Thao is a Hmong American children's illustrator based in the Twin Cities. His debut picture book, "Yang Warriors," written by acclaimed author, Kao Kalia Yang, was published in 2021 by University of Minnesota Press. He had contributed his illustrations to the Northern Festival and the Society of Children's Books Writers and Illustrators; in addition, he exhibited his work within Minnesota. Thao works as a caregiver for 19 years with his older brother who was diagnosed with autism.
