Lao American History and Culture Resources

This LibGuide was developed as part of a collaborative project on supplemental curriculum development between the Laotian American Community of Fresno and the Fresno Unified School District. The resources included were selected and compiled by members of the committee, which consisted of educators, scholars, and teachers. The page offers a curated selection of resources that highlight the history, culture, and contributions of the Lao American community. It features books, oral histories, and multimedia that trace the Lao American journey from Southeast Asia to the United States. Created to support learning, research, and cultural preservation, the guide amplifies voices across generations and celebrates the rich heritage, resilience, and identity of the Lao diaspora.

This compilation of Lao American History and Culture resources offers a curated collection of materials that help explore and understand the Lao American experience. It includes:

• Historical Context: Resources on Laos’ history, the Secret War, and refugee resettlement in the U.S.
• Immigration & Diaspora: Information about Lao migration waves, refugee camps, and U.S. resettlement policies.
• Literature & Oral Histories: Writings by Lao American authors, community storytelling projects, and recorded interviews.
• Cultural Traditions: Materials on Lao customs, festivals (e.g., Pi Mai Lao), Buddhism, language, music, and dance.
• Art & Media: Films, documentaries, visual arts, and performance pieces by Lao American creators.
• Community Organizations: Directories or profiles of groups promoting Lao heritage, advocacy, and youth engagement.
• Education & Curriculum: Lesson plans, teaching guides, and academic articles relevant to Lao American studies.
• Notable Figures: Biographies or spotlights on Lao American leaders, artists, scholars, and activists.

This list can serve educators, researchers, students, and community members seeking to preserve, share, and celebrate Lao American identity and heritage.

Disclaimer: This work is not solely my own. I served as one of the committee members and had the pleasure of compiling the resources for this guide.