Learning Event Support: The Harvest: Reflecting on the Hmong Experience to Build Cultural Humility

Deepening understanding of the Hmong culture among medical students, faculty, and the future medical workforce

Full Project Name:Learning Event Support: The Harvest: Reflecting on the Hmong Experience to Build Cultural HumilityPrincipal Investigator:Amy Prunuske, PhD, MCW Regional Campus – Central WisconsinAward Amount:$5,000

Award Date

July2024

Project Duration:5 months

Project Summary:

Understanding and respecting cultural diversity is crucial in healthcare, especially in areas with significant minority populations. This event aims to deepen medical students' and faculty's knowledge of the Hmong culture, highlighting the importance of cultural competence in medical practice and helping future healthcare providers understand the unique perspectives and needs of Hmong patients.

The event, hosted at the Medical College of Wisconsin-Central Wisconsin campus, will feature a screening of "The Harvest," followed by a discussion led by local Hmong medical providers and the film’s producer. Attendees will learn about Hmong traditions, including the use of herbal medicine and the challenges of integrating cultural identity with modern healthcare. Participants will also gain valuable perspectives that will enhance their ability to provide empathetic and effective care to Hmong patients.

Outcomes & Lessons Learned:

Engaged audience with personal accounts as well as the feature film documenting life of a Hmong individual supporting his family and overcoming obstacles in today's society
Promoted networking amongst medical students, community members, and leaders to make connections and be able to create a web of support in this heavily populated Hmong region
Created memorable experiences for audience members allowing them to further understand the Hmong culture, intricacies, and perceptions as this area has a large Hmong population