The Hmong have a tonal language. Unlike the English language, which has ending sounds such as the “t” ending in “that,” or the “m” in “am,” Hmong words don’t have ending sounds – for example like the English words, “coo” or “low.”
Hmong women traditionally don’t take their husbands’ last names when they marry. Their children, however, take their father’s last name. In the United States, though, many Hmong women have opted to change their last names because it’s easier than correcting people constantly in speech or writing.
Hmong people, traditionally, do not use chopsticks when they eat. But many Hmong have learned to use chopsticks, like many Americans, because they think it’s cool to be able use a pair.
Hmong don’t have middle names. However, many Hmong parents today have adopted that American tradition.
A Hmong last name is his or her clan name. There are only about 20 different clan names - that’s why lots of Hmong have similar last names. Traditionally, Hmong people are called by their clan name first followed by the given name. This is particular important to remember when addressing leaders and important figures.
Hmong traditionally practice are religion of shamanism and animism. It’s based on the belief that all living things have spirits and that the interaction of spirits in the spiritual world affect the physical world. The shaman’s role, therefore, is kind of like the physical world’s ambassador to the spiritual world with healing powers. Hmong people cannot choose or train to be shamans no matter how much they want to be one. It’s a right that belongs strictly to the shaman spirits, who only exists in particular family lines.
