Who We Are:
The Hmong American Women’s Association (HAWA), Inc. is a non-profit organization founded in 1993 by thirteen community women passionate about advocating for, organizing alongside, and addressing the concerns of Hmong women in their community. Since receiving 501©(3) status in 1996, HAWA has been a leading advocate and support network for Hmong women and their families in Milwaukee — offering social services, health education, literacy programs, cultural enrichment, youth mentoring, and convening safe spaces for building sisterhood. HAWA continues to foster Hmong women leaders whose contributions make a profound impact in Milwaukee, across Wisconsin, nationally and globally.
Our Mission
HAWA organizes Hmong and Southeast Asian women, girls, Queer, and trans people to champion gender justice and collective liberation.
Activities and Events Implemented in the Past:
2025, Reeled In Resilience: Curated Film showcase that highlighted local films around and by Hmong/SE Asian women and queer folks. Folks were able to gain opportunities for networking and engaged with local and aspiring Hmong/SE Asian filmmakers and creatives.
2025, Cim Mus Portrait Series: Honoring Hmong – Lao Veterans Day on May 14th, 2025, and marking 50 years of the Hmong American diaspora—HAWA is offered free portrait sessions to Hmong women, girls, and queer/trans folks in Wisconsin. This project was a celebration of their presence, their resilience, and their place in our ever-evolving Hmong American story. Believing that they deserve to be seen, held, and represented in the fullness of who they are.
2024, Women Wellness Month Workshops: A month full of events meant to center women around healing and wellness. We collaborated and included local community members to connect through cooking, dance, embroidery, and yoga.
2023, Milwaukee Hmong New Year Mural: Community-created mural reflecting collective visions and dreams for the future.
2023, Los Tsev: Cia Siab Traveling Exhibit: HAWA hosted a community exhibit featuring the stories, art, and healing journeys of Hmong women, youth, and LGBTQ+ community members across Wisconsin.
2022, Butterfly Wall & Hmong Girls Mural: Local artists Bella and June Vang painted a mural honoring Hmong girls in our youth space.
2022, SAYMKE Fellows Embroidery Workshop: Collaborative workshop with a local artisan, focusing on healing and connection through art.
2022, Youth Video: Teaming up with a UWM film student to produce a short video about our youth programs’ impact.
To stay up to date with our progress, future programs and announcements, follow us on Instagram at @hawa.mke & Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HmongAmericanWomensAssociation
Support Us — Donate Today
Please consider making a donation to HAWA. With funding cuts and the elimination of crucial resources for Hmong, SEA, and LGBTQIA+ communities, your support is more important than ever. If you’re unable to give financially, you can still make a huge impact by volunteering your time or sharing other resources you may have. Donate: https://www.hawamke.org/donate.html