Commentary: A Framework for 21st Century Hmong Leadership

The passing of General Vang Pao in January 2011 invoked many emotions throughout the Hmong communities in America and abroad and became an impetus for transitional leadership efforts in the Hmong American community. As such, the authors were compelled to share somethoughts on a leadership framework that could serve as a guide, resource, and reference for those who find themselves within leadership positions in the Hmong community. Our proposedframework consists of three major components: 1) knowledge of the Hmong leadershipcontinuum, 2) the infusion of a culturally embedded leadership structure into one’s leadershipstyle, and 3) an embracing of the key attributes of leadership. The leadership framework utilizedin this commentary article is drawn from several key sources including the academic literature,ethnographic observations, and professional experiences.