Summary
This story originally aired on WCCO – CBS Minnesota in May 2023. It offers a quick look at the history of Minnesota’s growing AAPI population.
Minnesota’s Asian American and Pacific Islander history spans over a century, beginning with Chinese immigrants in the 1870s. The state saw a significant influx of Hmong and Vietnamese refugees between 1979 and 1996, many resettled through church sponsorships, which provided crucial support.
Today, Minnesota is home to more than 350,000 AAPI residents, led by Hmong (88,579), Asian Indian (52,687), and Chinese (39,622) communities. This unique demographic blend has shaped Minnesota’s cultural and economic life. Leaders like ThaoMee Xiong and restaurateur Tammy Wong exemplify AAPI resilience and influence, from refugee beginnings to community leadership.
AAPI Minnesotans now contribute through farming, business, and politics. More than 100 languages are spoken across AAPI communities, reflecting vast diversity. Despite challenges, leaders hope to normalize AAPI presence in Minnesota, shifting from “Asian Minnesotan” to simply “Minnesotan,” emphasizing belonging and solidarity within the state’s evolving identity.
