Decades before Somali communities took root in Minnesota, the state served as a key resettlement site for Hmong refugees—many of whom had been trained and allied with the CIA during the Vietnam War. The influx transformed the region into a cultural and demographic center for the Hmong diaspora, shaping its identity long before other immigrant groups arrived. This historical shift reflects broader patterns of U.S. refugee policy and the lasting impact of Cold War-era alliances. The article explores how this legacy continues to influence Minnesota’s diverse communities today.
Before Minnesota became Somali central, it was the Hmong hub where a large population of CIA-trained Laotians were resettled.
