The Alliance was honored to participate in the 2023-24 Merced Hmong New Year celebration, hosted by the Merced Lao Family Community, Inc., and held each year to honor and celebrate the culture of the Hmong community in Merced. This event aligns with the Alliance strategic goal of making sure everyone can get the right health care in a way that fits their culture and language.
The event took place at the Merced Fairgrounds and lasted for three days, drawing people from surrounding areas, including Fresno and Sacramento, to celebrate the Hmong New Year and learn about Hmong culture. There were many interesting or entertaining things in which attendees could participate, such as traditional games and sports competitions in soccer, football and more. People also danced and wore traditional outfits, and many visited the various different stands that sold traditional clothes, toys and food.
The Alliance sponsored a table at the event, creating a space to speak with attendees about Alliance programs and services and answer any questions. Additional organizations, such as the Human Services Agency and Dignity Health, also attended to share helpful information.
“This was a great experience,” said Community Engagement Coordinator Maria Colomer who attended on behalf of the Alliance. “Getting to be present and watching everyone at the event, you can see and feel the closeness everyone has in the Hmong Community, and how much pride is taken in the culture.”
