Culture Meets Community: Walser Automotive’s AAPI Heritage Celebration

Threads of Tradition: A Hmong Clothing Showcase

This May, Walser Automotive Group and the Asian Hmong Alliance are proud to spotlight the vibrant heritage of Minnesota’s Hmong community through a traveling exhibit: Threads of Tradition: A Hmong Clothing Showcase.

Curated by Bee Vang-Moua, this striking display features traditional Hmong garments that celebrate culture, identity, and storytelling.

Displayed in six Walser dealerships throughout the Minneapolis/St. Paul region, the exhibit invites customers and employees alike to experience Hmong heritage in an unexpected setting—a dealership show floor.

Threads of Tradition in the News

We’re honored to see Threads of Tradition: A Hmong Clothing Showcase featured in the Star Tribune—Minnesota’s largest news source.

The article dives into the story behind the exhibit, shares curator Bee Vang-Moua’s inspiration, and explores how Walser’s dealership spaces were transformed into cultural showcases for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

“This is about belonging… not just showing our culture, but being seen in places you wouldn’t expect,” Vang-Moua shares in the interview.

Exhibit Locations & Dates

Hmong clothing is known for its vivid colors, intricate patterns, and meaningful design. Often incorporating pleated skirts, symbolic embroidery, and ornate accessories like silver jewelry, each garment reflects the artistry and history of its maker. These pieces are more than fashion; they’re cultural narratives, passed down through generations.

Remembering the Journey: 50 Years of Hmong in Minnesota

Happening May 14, Walser and AHA are also hosting a special panel discussion, Rooted & Rising: 50 Years of Hmong in Minnesota, featuring community leaders reflecting on Hmong identity, leadership, and progress.

 

Event Details

Wednesday, May 14th | 11:30am – 1pm

Walser Toyota Bloomington

In-person spots are full—join us virtually instead! Reserve your virtual seat now and be part of the conversation through our live webinar.

RESERVE YOUR VIRTUAL SEAT

 

This event commemorates Hmong American Day and the community’s journey to Minnesota.

During the Vietnam War era, the Hmong people were key U.S. allies in the CIA’s “Secret War” in Laos. After the war, many were forced to flee, and thousands resettled in the U.S.—with Minnesota becoming one of the largest Hmong population centers in the country. Their journey speaks to strength, sacrifice, and the power of perseverance.

 

Meet Our Speakers

May yer Thao President & CEO Hmong American Partnership

May Lee Xiong Principal Txuj Ci HMong School

Boua Xiong Director of PR Medtronic

Lee Pao Xiong Professor Concordia College

 

About the Asian Hmong Alliance

Asian Hmong Alliance is an Employee Resource Group at Walser, dedicated to celebrating and advancing Asian and Hmong representation across the company. AHA fosters belonging through cultural events, professional growth, and storytelling.

Learn More About Asian Hmong Alliance

 

About Walser Automotive Group

Walser Automotive Group operates 30+ retail locations across the U.S. and is committed to driving change in the automotive industry through inclusive culture, community giving, and people-first values. Walser proudly celebrates the diverse communities it serves year-round.

Learn More About Our Employee Resource Groups

 

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