SPNN to show Hmong documentary

A documentary telling the story of the first wave of Hmong refugees to come to St. Paul in 1975 will premiere on Thursday, Nov. 3, at 7 p.m. at Saint Paul Neighborhood Network Center in St. Paul. Hmong Pioneers: Honoring the First Wave is a documentary that tells the stories of "struggle, determination, and success despite great odds of Hmong refugees in St. Paul," SPNN announced. "In 1975, as the Vietnam War was coming to an end, the Hmong people in Laos fled their homes, livelihoods, and culture, and began to arrive in the U.S. as refugees." St. Paul has since become the largest home of Hmong Americans. The city's role in refugees' is part of the documentary's story. "The story of Hmong people coming to call St. Paul, Minnesota their home is an amazing one. Hmong Pioneers brings to light stories of triumph in the face of adversity, and showcases the unrelenting sense of tenacity of Hmong people. I have been honored to work on this important documentary over the past two and one-half years, and am thankful to all of those who shared their inspiring stories with us." said David Zierott, SPNN Producer. The November 3 screening is free. The screening will be followed by coffee and discussion. To register for the event, visit: hmongpioneers.org. SPNN is located at 550 Vandalia Street, Suite 170.