Mai Doua Yang wrote on Aug 15, 2006 5:44 PM:
" There is never a day that I am ashamed of being a Hmong or thinking that I have taken away a Caucasian child's opportunity. I know for sure that I will give that same blessing I received to a Caucasian child one day or any other child of a different color. So, I hope that you will also help me to welcome these new refugees just as others have welcomed your ancestors. Thanks for all of your comments and discussion. Thanks Joe and Thai Vue for educating our community about these new Hmong refugees. God bless your heart. I challenge you all to read more about the Hmong and what they have done, not only the Hmong, but other nationalities that you don't know about as well. Practice to understand others and maybe life will be more of a joyful journey than a painful one. "
Mai Doua Yang wrote on Aug 15, 2006 5:44 PM:
" Are they taking away your jobs and your government assistances? No. Actually what they received for assistances do not even amount to the suffering that they endured for the last 10 years in the refugee camps. You know, they actually deserved more just like anyone of us if we were in their shoes. Please reserve your harsh words against them because of an action by one or two Hmong. I think we all know that each of us are created uniquely by God, thus, should not be lumped into one group. I am proud to be a Hmong just like any of you who are proud of your own heritage. I am proud and not ashamed because my family and I have worked hard here in the United States. "
Mai Doua Yang wrote on Aug 15, 2006 5:41 PM:
" Is God punishing us here in the United States? No, because He has first given us the opportunity to climb up the ladder a long time ago and even to this day, yet we are still throwing it away and blaming others. This is my personal opinion. Please forgive me if I have offended many of you by saying this. When you know the truth about giving and loving someone despite their skin color or what nationality they are, you will discover great joy. For those of you who don't know, these new refugees have been hard-workers since the day they stepped into La Crosse, they worked harder than many of us. They attend school Monday through Friday to get their GED and then go straight to work. "
Mai Doua Yang wrote on Aug 15, 2006 5:41 PM:
" Yes, life is never fair and no matter where you are, life will never be fair. Let’s all help each other and make the best for all who are here. None of us deserve to be the way we are, but because we have all sinned and fallen under this curse of suffering; our only hope is to seek God. Go to God, ask Him to forgive our sins, and pray to him for financial blessings and you will receive it. I know this is not relevant to many of you, but I know for sure that these new Hmong refugees prayed many times and cried out years after years in the camp for God to deliver them. So, they are here by God's grace. "
Mai Doua Yang wrote on Aug 15, 2006 5:39 PM:
" Wow! I am amazed by the wonderful comments that many of you wrote. Thank you for your comments and for many who have supported and educated those who don't know. I personally enjoyed working with these new Hmong families. Actually, I think they are better than all of us because they really appreciate life here in the United States. For those of you who are still sleeping, wake up! The United States is for everyone who is willing to work hard and pursue their dreams. "
to tip toeing wrote on Aug 2, 2006 9:22 PM:
" hey..... i fish too. I've had that same thing happen to me, only the geezer with the kid was white. Could it be that he was just trying to increase the lad's luck at fishing and let him enjoy the sport as much as we do? It's a big river with a lot of sloughs to fish. On the other hand, you COULD go get a freakin' boat. "
to Rick Weeth to English #1 wrote on Aug 2, 2006 9:19 PM:
" English is NOT required for immigration to the US. I never said it was. It IS, however, required for full CITIZENSHIP, as the applicants must learn about how the gov't. works, state names, and basic tests must be passed, These tests are in English. As to your co-worker, I bet he showed up every day, on time, ready to work his tail off and didn't get involved in people demanding insanely over exaggerated pay for manual labor. He probably is grateful for the work and spends his paycheck to further advance the common good of his family as opposed to new bass boats, rims for the pickup and a new iPod for every kid in the house. "
hey erks me wrote on Aug 2, 2006 9:15 PM:
" go down to the county and apply for SSI. Lie on the application like a lot of the losers in La Crosse who are on SSI (and spend their checks at the bars and crack houses.) Apply for a student loan like MOST americans going to college. Default on those loans like a good number of the americans who went to college on them so that tuition goes up to recoup the losses. If you still feel oppressed, move somewhere else. "
re; Kids are expensive wrote on Aug 2, 2006 5:08 PM:
" right on! I know of one owner of a church, has 10 kids, lives on 'the system' and puts all donations right back into the church. Hate it when people use religion for the benes. "
re; Rick Weeth to "English #1" wrote on Aug 2, 2006 5:05 PM:
" Immigrants are not required to speak english, get with it. You spew a lot of what you know nothing about. I worked with a laotion/hmong at a factory, he spoke two words,, yesyesyes and nonono ....... other than that there was no social skill, or language understanding. The company offered to PAY HIM to go to learn english, he REFUSED. English required, what a hoot! "
to; Rick Weeth wrote on Aug 2, 2006 5:02 PM:
" Hmong and Laotions are the same thing. Laotions come from Laos, and believe in the hmong religion. "
Employed wrote on Aug 2, 2006 5:00 PM:
" If each 13 of these people scoop up a job, and never walk into the Lax Co human resource building, more power to them! Otherwise, I'll spring for a return ticket. "
eerks me wrote on Aug 2, 2006 4:56 PM:
" What eerks me, is that as a single male on hard luck, I have no benefits available to me. As immigrants, they have more available than I do, that was born in LaCrosse, can you understand my anger? I thought the war was over years ago, yet, the planes keep landing. Where can americans run to to get health care, schooling and a career? I can't because the feds have all the money going to military now. That's a fact! Where do us Americans run to free us from our oppressors? "
MW wrote on Aug 2, 2006 1:26 PM:
" Many blessings to this family. La Crosse is fortunate to have good people like these who want to live and work here. Some of our citizens should quit being so cheap, narrow minded, and plain mean. "
To Father wrote on Aug 2, 2006 1:11 PM:
" You prove my point. There are good and bad people of all shapes and colors. -Nick "
proud to be a hmong wrote on Aug 2, 2006 11:41 AM:
" born and raised right here in la crosse for 20 years and successful.....i work hard for my money i just think twice where and what i do with it.....so i dont see why you are complaining about hmong people they works just as hard for their money....give at least this...have you ever see a homeless hmong person walking around asking for food...no i didn't think so..poor and dieing we still have fate and work as hard as we can to servive the american dream....me i live it and i live it big...why because i works just like all of you people out there....so some love....i got white friends that would rather be hmong because of the way white people act....back each other up for once...always saying that we are unfair..baby we come in a pack we survive as a pack....thats the way the cookie crumbled "
a father wrote on Aug 2, 2006 11:32 AM:
" To Idiots:
Yep, and now with you gone, there's one less. "
a father wrote on Aug 2, 2006 11:25 AM:
" To Nick:
Yes, this community is learning what world of color brings us, we see it every day. Usually in the paper under the police blotter section. Wake up junior! "
Welcome wrote on Aug 2, 2006 10:56 AM:
" I'd like to be the first to welcome you to Hillbilly City. Let's get you acquainted with the rules and regulations of Hillbilly City.
1. No cuttin' in line for the free government cheese. We've got first dibs.
2. Learn English. We can hardly speak it or write it, but you better know it because we say so.
3. Pay yer taxes. A lot of us don't, but we're from here while you aint.
4. Only 2 kids per family. Only our unwed unemployed family members is allowed to do that because they are from here and you aint.
"
Really? wrote on Aug 2, 2006 10:46 AM:
" Immigrants don't pay taxes? They get free houses, land, and cars? Can they vote too?
I'm an immigrant from Australia and I didn't get a free car, house, or anything for that matter. I've paid taxes every single year and even served in the USMC during the Desert Storm era.
What gives? I want my free house, land, boat, money, wives, get out of jail free card, candy, wine, toilet paper, and all the other goodies the Hmong supposedly get.
What happened to 'no taxation without equal representation'? I guess I'm owed 27 years of back taxes...and a car.
"
Nick wrote on Aug 2, 2006 10:08 AM:
" Good luck to our new neighbors, this community is still learning what a world of colors is like. Give them time, they don't know any better. "
You should be ashamed of yourselves!! wrote on Aug 2, 2006 3:33 AM:
" So many posters here "crying" wondering... "why can't I get assistance, where is MY free car". Buck up, get a job. How many white americans abuse the system and keep plopping out kids just to get MA or foodstamps? I'm a single (white) Mom of three (divorced) and work very hard, as these Hmong families do. I, on the other hand don't qualify for assistance since I "make too much money" and once I pay my bills, I am broke. My xhubby on the other hand, gets MA and section 8 housing even though he does not have the kids the majority of the time. These Hmong families are hard working and deserve our help. You want to complain about people the taxpayers shouldn't have to support... look to the lazy white american. Good luck to the Hmong family from a friendly neighbor. "
Thorn wrote on Aug 1, 2006 3:41 PM:
" TO:NO NAME-So the "War" has been over for years? Tough sh*t! Go complain to the DEMOCRATIC (i.e. Lyndon Johnson) State Department that made all those promises to the Hmong and never kept their promises! Chickens coming home to roost buck-O! "
Share our good fortune wrote on Aug 1, 2006 12:23 PM:
" I strongly believe that our country would be much better off if we all lived by the belief of judging not by the color of skin (or cultural background), but by the content of character. Why does the example of one person who commited a wrongdoing or did something "disrespectful" translate into the entire group having that characteristic? It is also important to consider cultural heritage when defining a person's actions. I welcome the new family, and all of those to follow. Americans should value the fact that we have the ability to help those in need, and be grateful to live in a country that can provide for others. What is wrong with sharing that blessing? "
everyone deserves to be equal wrote on Aug 1, 2006 10:40 AM:
" I don,t think its fair to hmongs to just fly to america and right away they are made citizens of our country they should have to do the same as every other immigrent seeking to be a united states citizen,I,m not a racisist person I believe every color and nationatility should have to work for a living unless they are medically dissabled,and one nationaility shouldent be treated better than another.Iv,e seen alot of racisim here in lacrosse where I grew up in the suburbs of chicago I went to school with blacks,whites,mexicans&chinese and none of us ever disrespected the other because of our skin color or nationality,but here in lacrosse I here blacks and other people of color called derogatory names all the time and i think its apalling were all the same on the inside. "
no name wrote on Aug 1, 2006 10:23 AM:
" THE WAR HAS BEEN OVER FOR MANY YEARS NOW...Enough is Enough already! "
Thank you Deacon Sage wrote on Aug 1, 2006 9:41 AM:
" I wonder how many of the folks posting these hostile, hateful comments sit in Deacon Sage's church on Sunday pretending to be God-fearing, Christian people. Mr. Sage is living his faith - few of us have that courage and character. La Crosse is a tough place for anyone who is "different" - best of luck to the Hmong family - they will need it. "
Objections wrote on Aug 1, 2006 6:10 AM:
" No one would object to anyone coming into this country if we truely took care of our own. Instead we hide our shame behind low wages, and cooperate welfare. "
Sensitivity wrote on Aug 1, 2006 1:28 AM:
" I wasn't throwing stones, just stating "facts" given by a Hmong speaker. I think the majority of the folks expressing negative opinions in this blog are frustrated with government agencies and the disparities in services - not the immigrants personally. Disagreeing with how government treats Hmong families coming here doesn't automatically warrant labels such as "redneck", "moron" or "idiot", talk about intollerance. We're all so fortunate to live in the US and need to start to work together lest we fall apart! "
TO: SENSITIVITY wrote on Jul 31, 2006 11:41 PM:
" Hmmmm - I wonder if you speak out against the domestic violence that is quietly tolerated by some religious groups because their scriptures can be used to make it all ok? Some Christians, for example.
I wonder if you speak out against the cultural norm of wpmen recieving less pay for equal work - which can effectively keep a woman reliant on a man?
No stone throwing, please!
"
Tip toeing wrote on Jul 31, 2006 11:35 PM:
" so long ago my ancestors fished and hunted for food, i purely just enjoy it, but would i be able to get away with more because of my ancestrial ways, no because i am white and i should know better? Sorry to all readers i guess i am a bigot, but wait you can't call me that unless everyone is playing by the rules of society, and then if i judged without reason then you could call me a bigot. But i am not judging without reason, maybe lawmakers should put it in writing that its not breaking laws if your culture sees things differently. "
Fed up wrote on Jul 31, 2006 11:34 PM:
" I work with people from all over La Crosse county - and I can tell you that of the folks who know how to use the "system" endlessly (false information on forms, making up stories, etc) the most frequent abusers are those folks born in the US. They are also the ones who have the least family support.
"
Tip toeing wrote on Jul 31, 2006 11:30 PM:
" so i think that the problem may be within our police force tip toeing around situations involving these people "no particular race" but generally non-white so that they dont ruffle any feathers wirthin the community as this article seems to be doing, If you want to call me racist go ahead but i wouldnt recommend doing so when i give everyone a pretty fair chance before judging, but when a large group of people can get away with breaking laws in some cases (i am referring to fishing regulations) where public officials let them get away with breakiong the rules but that is probably just because there culture allows it right? "
Tip Toeing wrote on Jul 31, 2006 11:21 PM:
" So i was fishing one day 4 years ago, with plenty of room all around me, i started catching plenty of fish, and was having a grand old time, when an older hmong man brought what looked to be his grandson over and motioned for him to cast where i was casting he did not speak english. No laws were broken by him but respect goes all ways. "
To: TO: RAGING READER wrote on Jul 31, 2006 10:30 PM:
" The Hmong lost 30,000 fighting for us in Laos, more than 10% of their total population. At least another 10% died fleeing and rotting in the camps. They also lost their entire way of life. The Hmong only wanted to live in peace until we unilaterally expanded the French neo-colonial war. Now they just want the opportunities most of us who were born here take for granted. Yet you begrudge them even that, while many of their sons and daughters serve this country in uniform even though some aren’t US citizens yet. Your comments are both racist and xenophobic and thankfully represent only a loud minority. "
worrried about the wrong people wrote on Jul 31, 2006 9:07 PM:
" The Hmong immigrants are not who we should be worried about. We should be concentrating our efforts on turning back the tide of emigration of inner city dewelers from Chicago and Milwaukee. These are the people who come just for our welfare dollars and bring crime, gangs, and drugs with them. "
Idiots wrote on Jul 31, 2006 6:58 PM:
" I have always been a proud UW-L alum, however, after reading the comments here I am just proud I no longer live in La Crosse. I cannot believe how many idiots there are in the Coulee Region. "
Stupid Rednecks wrote on Jul 31, 2006 6:55 PM:
" The problem with La Crosse is all the stupid rednecks. You know who you are. It is the stupid rednecks who are most threatened by new people. The rednecks are the low rung of society and get pushed down even further when hard working intelligent people move into the area. Forgive them for their ignorance. They don't even understand what they do. It is generations of low class breeding that is to blame. "
May God Forgive The City of La Crosse wrote on Jul 31, 2006 6:34 PM:
" May God forgive the city of La Crosse for such a very warming welcome to the land that is not even theirs'. Hold your comments if you don't have any thing good to say. Reconsider what you have to say about other cultures and people of other races. Your own race is not superior. Welcome minorities, as you may need benefits from us being here. Turn to your community and observe so many of your own people waiting for welfare. Don't be jealous that minorities are here in the US and driving Lexus, Toyotas, and BMWs. Don't spend your time here and get to WORK and make a difference if your really have something to say about others being in the United States! "
Thorn wrote on Jul 31, 2006 6:32 PM:
" TO:Raging Reader - ...to bad...you lose! These folks are here legally. Rant about illegal immigration if you wish. Bet you a steak dinner that 10-30 years down the road these folks will all (at least most), be off assistance. You cannot say the same for MOST americans born here that "require" assistance. "
Re: To Raging Reader wrote on Jul 31, 2006 6:14 PM:
" Okay, don't shout-- we can hear you. To your point of "thinking about other people before our own people" being wrong-- then what are we doing over in Iraq? We need to help the people HERE first, whether they have been here for five generations or five days. The United States shouldn't be sticking its nose where it doesn't belong or isn't wanted. Katrina WAS a disaster for that very reason. The Bush administration's priorities are skewed... they don't care about this country's citizens at all, plain and simple. I guess we need to look out for each other. "
Thai Vue wrote on Jul 31, 2006 6:08 PM:
" This type of discussion will help us clarify the misunderstanding and miss information. HMAA is located on 2613 George Street, La Crosse. We are other institutions in La Crosse were responsible and still responsible to finding jobs for the refugees. For La Crosse County, nearly 70% of the Hmong families own a house and pay the same property tax as any other Americans. Locally, less then 3% of Hmong receiving welfare today and thanks to the mainstream Americans here, church congregation, businesses and government that help made this possible. This institutional of helping people to help themsevleve give me a great lesson here in America. We the Hmong will carry on this investment. Thank you. "
Thai Vue wrote on Jul 31, 2006 6:07 PM:
" There are people who may not want to believe the true but I think there are plenty of people who are lacking the information and do not even know where to find out about it.
I welcome you to the La Crosse Area Hmong Mutual Assistance Association (HMAA) or go the Catholic Charity of the Diocese of La Crosse and objectively discuss any concerns or input that you have that can help Americans. Hmong are not exempt from paying any taxes. Hmong are good labor supply to the local economic. Feel free to visit my office and find out the true about the Hmong if you care about this community and the people of this community. I thank each of you whom taking the time to write and state your viewpoints. Continues on dialog 5.
"
Thai Vue wrote on Jul 31, 2006 6:06 PM:
" Many Hmong were on welfare in the late 70s, 80s and 90s. Much progress had been made to change this; refugee who could work, worked during their early arrival. I started working the 21 days of arriving. 2000 U.S. Census showed that the nearly 40,000 Hmong in Wisconsin generated an annual earned income of $235 million, over 50% own their own homes and pay the same property tax that any Americans who own a house do. No Hmong are receiving any more assistance then any typical poor Americans. It is an uninformed for thinking that Hmong received special treatment. Please call the local county human service to find out what benefit provide to Hmong if you do not believe me, you can do the same to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service. Continues on dialog 4. "
Thai Vue wrote on Jul 31, 2006 6:03 PM:
" The political Hmong refugee who came here including the 13 that just came were political refugees and had involved with the U.S. in the 60s and 70s whether directly or through association. Hmong and Americans just not working together today, but nearly 5 decades ago. For us to properly address the refugee issues, we need to work with U.S. Congress because congress made decision to bring the Hmong here. To resolve our local issues, we need work together on this. Giving welfare to poor people is a decision made by American through the U.S. Government. If you believe in Americans, you need to support and believe or for that matter, change the government through the process in which the people created. Bashing one another is not going help. Continues on dialog 3. "
Thai Vue wrote on Jul 31, 2006 6:02 PM:
" First, I think we all owed a great appreciation to the earlier settlers who came to America and built American for all for us, we owed the people who continue to build America and make her a great place for all people who have the opportunity to come here whether because of political association with the U.S., employment needs by U.S. companies, or whether through family re-unification. We the Hmong are one of the later refugees from Laos. Hmong lived in China, prospers in China until the later war between the Hmong and the Han Chinese about 6000 years ago. We the Hmong who live in Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, or Burma were those migrated South during this war. There are 7,000,000 Hmong remain in China today. Continues on dialog 2. "
Working Class wrote on Jul 31, 2006 5:11 PM:
" I work 40 hours a week. I’m not willing to work more, I like to enjoy life. Taxes & insurance come out of my check, & the insurance isn’t great. I don’t own a house, car, or have kids, I can’t afford to. I believe one parent should be home to raise them. After I pay my student loans things may change. It doesn’t make me racist to say it ticks me off my money has to go to foreigners, it merely makes me the working poor. It doesn’t make me racist to say it ticks me off I have to accept other cultures when I get blasted for having a Christmas tree, it only makes me a white Christian living in the US. When something's outdated, you change it. Maybe the sign on the Statue of Liberty needs editing. "
TO: RAGING READER wrote on Jul 31, 2006 3:37 PM:
" YOU ARE RIGHT, I AM NOT RACIST I AM JUST WILLING TO PROTECT THE PEOPLE OF MY COUNTRY, BORN HERE, RAISED HERE, BELONG HERE. IF THEY WERE BRINGING AFRICANS OR GERMANS OR ANYONE, IT DOESN'T JUST HAVE TO BE HMONGS, I WOULD BE JUST AS UPSET, RACIST ISN'T THE PROBLEM IN THIS CASE, IT IS THE FACT THAT WE ARE THINKING ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE BEFORE OUR OWN PEOPLE AND THAT IS WRONG, IT IS CALLED PRIORITIES, FIND THEM!!! "
TO: I welcome the family wrote on Jul 31, 2006 3:33 PM:
" Why are they legal aliens and all the mexicans coming to this country "illegally" not? Because america didn't make promises to that country many years ago? What is america going to do for the folks from mexico that want to come her and WANT TO WORK!!! "
to: reply to chris wrote on Jul 31, 2006 3:30 PM:
" Too many people in our county getting help that don't need it??? What the hell are you talking about? must be some over paid, top of the company man because there are hard working single mothers out there like myself that can't afford to live, even with 2 jobs. I work 40 hours a week plus have a part time job, I still need assistance because LaCrosse corporations are so stuck on paying the poor less and paying the rich more!!! We have hmong families coming here getting assistance, etc.. bringing 11 kids into lacrosse, that means less room in schools, less $ for benefits, etc.. I would root for the hmongs coming over here as soon as the US makes sure that every AMERICAN is taken care of first!!! See if that ever happens, we say F our people, let's take care of aliens!!!! "
To birth control? wrote on Jul 31, 2006 1:31 PM:
" The Hmong people lived in the mountains of Laos and are considered a modern hunter-gatherer/agriculturalist society. They had limited contact with the outside world until the wars. Health care as we know it, including birth control, was rarely if ever available. Even then, like our 19th and early 20th century forbearers, it was common to have large families to provide the labor to obtain food. The purpose of large families was also to improve the odds that enough of the children survived to care for the parents in their old age. These practical goals were reinforced religiously and socially, just as in our society. The second generation typically will have far fewer children and the third even fewer. "
Gary Weaver to White La Crosse Welcome wrote on Jul 31, 2006 1:12 PM:
" I noticed that you didn't use your name either.
I may not agree with all that happens for these people but none the less we should welcome them to America. "
to reconsider wrote on Jul 31, 2006 1:07 PM:
" yoy said "They should be treated equal to the returning 458th division" because they helped us during Veitnam. Well as a veitnam vet souldn't they be treated the same way we were when we returned. And if memory serves me that wasn't very good. "
I welcome the family wrote on Jul 31, 2006 12:58 PM:
" because they are legally in the US. Had they been illegal, I would not welcome them at all. I hope the resources provided to them do not include welfare payments. No food stamps, either, unless it is for a limited time period, like less than a year. I truly wish that ESL classes were mandatory for all immigrants to be completed with-in 2 years or so. This is America, learn to speak it, learn to love it and follow our laws. Welcome. "
To the so-called "True Americans" wrote on Jul 31, 2006 12:39 PM:
" I hope every single one of you is Native American. Because otherwise.. you really have no room to talk do you? Our country is supposed to be about accepting others and prvoding a safe and great place to live. So, why do people forget after a generation or two that they aren't "native" either? Racist people make me sick. You people need to wake up and get a big ol' punch in the face. "
Rick Weeth to White-La Crosse Welcome wrote on Jul 31, 2006 12:19 PM:
" The only problem with that, my friend, is that none of these morons will attend or even tune in to TV 19 to witness or take part in such a "town hall meeting." The very few who actually see it at all will be the ones trying to tune in to their beloved NASCAR or reality TV show and even then it will be for about three seconds before they have their dog come operate the remote for them. I always thought La Crosse was a pretty tolerant place until seeing the posts on this site. Hillbilly central! "
White-La Crosse Welcome your new neighbors or move. wrote on Jul 31, 2006 11:57 AM:
" This goes out to all those racist comments, who are hiding behind their computer. You "White People" are showing your true colors and your kids are going to be just like you (racist). It's a shame that La Crosse have so many racist people who I probably work, shop, banking, dinning and live with. Only if I could see these people face to face, or knew their names. I wish the Tribune require a name or address for sending a comment. If La Crosse have a "Town Hall" meeting on Race Relations this might stop some of the stupid comments from being made.....Welcome Home Hmong people. "
birth control? wrote on Jul 31, 2006 11:11 AM:
" I've got nothing against the hmong. I do have something against ANYONE (i don't care what color you skin is) having more children then they can take care of (fiscally, emotionally, etc)). The Earth does have a limit to how many souls it can hold, and i fear were near that limit (or maybe past). "
Raging Reader wrote on Jul 31, 2006 9:16 AM:
" Why is a person being "racist" when they explain their viewpoint. Is anyone discussing another culture "racist" now? Maybe if our society wasn't required to constantly tip-toe publicly so as to not "hurt anyone's feelings", we would not be the violent society we are today. Life is not fair and not everyone is going to like you. That is life's first lesson. As for "owing" the Hmong people for their actions in Vietnam, my father fought in Vietnam as did my Grandfather in WWII. Neither of them ever took a handout in their life. "
UNFAIR wrote on Jul 31, 2006 8:18 AM:
" Not to long ago there was a program at UWL that gave scholarships for teaching assistants. So my wife called to apply. She was told by UWL that she could not even apply unless she was asian or Hmong. Is this fair? I think not!!! "
Facts for example wrote on Jul 31, 2006 12:31 AM:
" You can not just point at one case and say “look they are all criminals”. To get a more accurate picture you should compare the number of felony arrests so far this year with the respective percentages of Lacrosse County’s population. When you do this it breaks down like this: Asians make up 3.3% of the population but only 2.8% of felony arrests, Whites (which includes Hispanics) make up 94.2% of population and 71.5% of felony arrests, and African Americans are 1.1% of the population and make up 25.7% of felony arrests. If you want to check my numbers you can get the population percentages from the census bureau and look up the racial data for all of the felony arrests to date for this year on CCAP. Next time check your facts before you level blanket accusations at a group of people. "
To example wrote on Jul 30, 2006 11:57 PM:
" Nobody claims all Hmong are perfect. A lot of the crimes committed by young Hmong males are behavior they sadly learned after they arrived here. In just over 20 years, the first waves of Hmong refugees have a higher employment rate, home ownership rate, and lower crime rate than whites. Their children are doing even better, with more going on to college. "
Briana...again, round 2 wrote on Jul 30, 2006 10:26 AM:
" ...Also, your comment about how your mother's cousin and his family were forbidden to speak their own mother-tongue comes across as if you see that as a good thing. I think it's really too bad that it happened that way. Who knows, maybe if it would've been encouraged instead, you could've grown up with your family speaking German, as well as English, to you, and you could be bilingual without even trying. Then again, maybe that's too "un-American", so nevermind.
"
Briana...again wrote on Jul 30, 2006 10:25 AM:
" "Racist/head case", you say you usually try to not respond to racist remarks, but it seems to me you sure know how to type up a good one of your own.
What makes you say that new immigrants have no respect for this country?? Because they still speak their mother-language and try to hold on to their culture?? I can think of a few things that would make me lose respect for a country if I were in the same position...being surrounded by racist comments, being treated as less of a person because of my nationality, and being expected to give up my culture while assimilating to a new one. The meshing of cultures is one of the things that makes this country beautiful, and it's a shame you can't grasp that...
"
hey JJ wrote on Jul 30, 2006 9:31 AM:
" ...then, make it to a neighboring country, where you get to live in a reloaction center camp in the jungle, in conditions rivaling any POW camp in Asian jungle conditions. You get to stay there from 17 months to 12 years. You get to watch as your family gets sick and dies one by one. Your names get called, but someone gets sick between the time of notification and the time to get on the bus..... back of the line, pal. For everyone. You never fired a shot in combat, but you're there because it beats dying....narrowly. Finally, you get on a plane and land in La Crosse Wisconsin in January. Snow? Holy buckets it's cold here. Sure hope we don't have to live in the street tonight. Welcome to America. "
To: Re--Racist/head case, wrote on Jul 30, 2006 9:31 AM:
" Your tirade is pointless... All immigrants were "new" at some time. It is NEVER easy; everything is relative. The people who came here 100 years ago dealt with different hardships than those who come now, but beleive it or not, there are many-- if not more-- hardships today (attitudes like yours, for example). Quit acting like these people will have things handed to them. They ARE Americans now-- I wish this family success and happiness in their new homeland! P.S. Your smug remark about French immigrants is equally insulting. YOU are a disgrace to this country. "
hey JJ wrote on Jul 30, 2006 9:27 AM:
" you CAN get the same "treatment" as the Hmong by the government. First, have your grandparents support the US in a war 30 years' back. Have public opinion tie the warriors' hands so that they lose. Next, have the emerging power start raiding your little town looking for your grandparents. Oh, they escaped. Well they'll take YOU and shoot you just for being related to them. So, pack your infants and toddlers and teens and any elders still alive and trek through the jungle a couple hundred miles on foot with armed people after you...... "
JJ wrote on Jul 30, 2006 6:32 AM:
" If we can provide all thse services free to the HMong why cant we as citizens getr the same treatment?? politics "
JJ wrote on Jul 30, 2006 6:31 AM:
" If we can provide all thse services free to the Mong why cant we as citizens getr the same treatment?? politics "
Briana Rupel, continued... wrote on Jul 30, 2006 5:29 AM:
" To everyone else who holds similar racist notions: Where are your ancestors from? You should feel grateful that, somewhere down the line, your family decided to head to the US to seek a better life. If you were being persecuted in your own country, wouldn't you also welcome the chance to escape in order to improve your life? Wouldn't you do anything to insure that your children could grow up safely, get educated, and make something out of their lives? The fact that you grew up in this country enveloped in these freedoms is a privilege! Open your eyes and stop taking your luck for being born in this country for granted. "
Briana Rupel wrote on Jul 30, 2006 5:28 AM:
" To "Great...": Where are your rewards for being here, you ask? The word limit won't allow for the interminable list I could post for you, but, for starters, how 'bout the freedom you have to post your opinions (though I don't agree with them...)? I'd consider that a reward, even though you seem to take it for granted.
"
Re-Racist/head case wrote on Jul 30, 2006 2:39 AM:
" I usually try not to respond to such racist remarks. How can anyone condemn anyone of Italian, German, (Screw the French) decent. When all of our ancestors came to this country, there were no free handouts. If you were sick at Ellis Island, they were sent home. Then if they got in, they had to find jobs, learn English and survive on their own with no government assistance. When WWI & II came around, who were the first to enlist, our forefathers. Tonight I just spoke with my mothers oldest cousin, in his 80s, and he said that they were forbidden to speak GERMAN in their household because now, they are Americans! You never see this in public now because the new immigrants have no respect for this country and only are here for the free handouts. God Bless America!! "
13 more? wrote on Jul 29, 2006 10:36 PM:
" Challenges? We'll hand them everything they want and need just like the other 500000 that came to America-free to you if you're Hmong. Give them free medical and harrass the hell out of us Americans working hard and getting phones calls day after day because the clinic wants more than $50 a month for outstanding medical bills not covered by our wonderful insurance plans. Give to the Americans first. "
to Example... wrote on Jul 29, 2006 10:02 PM:
" ...and what country do your ancestors come from? I am sure they are beaming with pride as they read your intelligent thoughts! boooo!! "
Humanism wrote on Jul 29, 2006 9:42 PM:
" Welcome to America Hmong family. There are accepting people here and those who rebel at changes. You will know in your heart which is which. I hope you find the loving, caring people, as they will be role models to your entry into the community. May God Bless, May you be happy! "
Who cares who lives here ? wrote on Jul 29, 2006 9:25 PM:
" It's the American dream. I hope it's everything they expected and wanted.
Good luck. "
Racists wrote on Jul 29, 2006 4:45 PM:
" How many of you hillbillies are of European descent; Italian, German, French, etc? Do you hear the Hmong calling you names? How many of you have ever had to get help from the government?
The Hmong are some of the nicest folks around. I trust them more than I trust the majority of the white trash in LaCrosse. "
richgarr wrote on Jul 29, 2006 4:37 PM:
" Much of our tax money goes to keep the quality of life in America higher than any other nation in the world. Its stories like this--and organizations like Catholic Charities--that keep me pround to live in this great nation. "
Better wrote on Jul 29, 2006 4:18 PM:
" to have the Hmong who at least came here by legal means than the Mexicans who break the law to come here. "
rick to Perfect Sense wrote on Jul 29, 2006 2:37 PM:
" What you missed was all the strikes that went on in the 70s and 80s when uneducated factory workers in the US demanded and got ridiculously high wages for doing work that trained monkeys can do. Putting that much capital in the hands of morons helped usher in the worst recessions and drove up the cost of living (to keep the gap wide.) Now, big business trends are to outsource, or hire immigrants who are willing to settle for less because they'll do far more with half your paycheck than you will do with three. Midwestern Americans are, on the whole, lazy, suspicious, ignorant, and wanting far more for far less. Enter people like these. We brought this on ourselves, people. Deal with it or pack up and head out. "
hey example wrote on Jul 29, 2006 2:32 PM:
" what a moron. you justify xe-no-fo-bi-a (I broke it up for your pitiful a##) by posting one article excerpt about one kid. Brilliant. I suppose if you were in charge, we should round up all the darkies because of Alvin Hughes. Oh and circle the wagons from the injuns because of Mr. Youngthunder. They have places for people like you. They're called churches. Go there fast and start praying for forgiveness. "
To: example-- so what? wrote on Jul 29, 2006 1:03 PM:
" What is the purpose of your ridiculous comment? NEWS FLASH: Most of the crimes around here are NOT caused by Hmong people. Who in the heck are you?! "
Re. example wrote on Jul 29, 2006 12:21 PM:
" Wow, your tiny, simple little racist minds never cease to amaze. What a pointless attempt to villify. Everyday I read stories about white American criminals, so I must assume that you and everyone else are no-good as well. "
Community member wrote on Jul 29, 2006 12:08 PM:
" I have seen first hand the refugees, and i have also seen first hand the people who have lived in the area since birth. In working with the new refugees, their desire to improve is amazing, they want to get jobs, make a life for themselves, their families, their children and get off any public assistance. They are contributing members to our community. The so-called "natives" i have seen would rather sit on their butts and work the system. I would much rather have the Hmong refugees arrive to our community than natives who are plain lazy! "
Thorn wrote on Jul 29, 2006 10:30 AM:
" TO: Chris - You state..."look it is not fair for people to say that they are glad that they are here to work and take other peoples jobs away from them" Hey; where did you EVER get the idea that life was supposed to be "fair"? And, exactly whose jobs are the people "taking"? Do you know someone you lost their job because a Hmong immigrant "took it"!? TO: UNJUST - The US government most certainly did abandon these folks...and millions died because of it. Get with history... "
example wrote on Jul 29, 2006 10:28 AM:
" Hey all you bleeding heart liberals. Heres a fine example, right here in the trib, of these fine people from other lands coming to this country. "Kou Vue, 18, of 516 Farnam St., La Crosse, was charged Thursday with felony aggravated battery with a weapon. La Crosse police said Vue and three others used weapons to beat a man in April. Vue was charged after he was taken into custody on an arrest warrant issued May 1, according to court records."
"
Chris, Jon and others.... wrote on Jul 29, 2006 10:14 AM:
" I teach at a local HS. Some of the hardest working, most respectful, family-centered students I have are Hmong. I would rather teach a class of 30 Hmong students than have 10 of the white "American" students that don't want to be there and cause problems for the rest. If parents only knew the disruption, chaos and bad atmosphere some of the "locals" cause, they would be outraged. I welcome the Hmong not only in my classroom but in our community. I'll bet I had Chris and Jon in my class of 10....... "
slow news day wrote on Jul 29, 2006 8:32 AM:
" nobody cares about these people "
Prejudice is alive and well wrote on Jul 29, 2006 8:21 AM:
" I am disturbed by the amount of hateful, angry comments people have posted. How many of us are here because a family member came from another country once upon a time to find a better life? There is NO excuse for these selfish, bigoted comments. You really have it rough, don't you? Quit whining and grow up! If that is your "contribution" to the La Crosse area, then move somewhere else, PLEASE. "
Sensitivity cont ... #3 I had a lot to say! wrote on Jul 29, 2006 3:32 AM:
" I'm not trying to be a bigot, even though many of you will accuse me of being one, I'm just appauled at what one group of citizens would be prosecuted for - child rape, polygamy, etc. - is accepted as "cultural". Let's not even discuss the fact that so many times the children in the vehicles shared by 10+ family members aren't in proper car restraints. I have no problem with anyone who wants to come to this great country as long as they do it legally and I'm not asking anyone to give up their culture, but they must find a way to reconcile that culture with the law of the land. Thank you and I truly wish this new family all the best our area has to offer. "
Sensitivity cont ... #2 wrote on Jul 29, 2006 3:32 AM:
" Or that women are treated as chattle and domestic violence is quietly tollerated in the Hmong Community. Or that we are not to speak to any of the Hmong women if a Hmong male is present - even if she is the only person who speaks the language. Some of the things shared that day were quite interesting, how their language evolved, that the Hmong people really don't have a country to call their own, other marriage practices, how they feel since their fathers, uncles, grandfathers or brothers helped American solders during the Viet Nam war, we owe them. "
Sensitivity cont ... wrote on Jul 29, 2006 3:30 AM:
" The seminar was headed by one of our Physicians, who's own family came to the US from SE Asia when he was a boy - forgive my memory but I don't recall the country from which they came. It may be because I was so appauled by some of the things he told us that are "part of the Hmong culture" that we would "just have to accept". Things like a father "selling" his young teenaged daughter to a man who may already have 2 or 3 "wives". "
Sensitivity wrote on Jul 29, 2006 3:29 AM:
" One day a several months ago, my clinic co-workers and I were invited to a luncheon. We thought it was going to be a mini-seminar on Internal Medicine vs Family Medicine. But low and behold, it was a "sensitiviy" seminar on how to treat Hmong families. Evidently someone had complained and the organization felt the need to set us straight. We were never given specifics about an incident of disrespect or rudenss that prompted this action. "
J&C wrote on Jul 29, 2006 1:25 AM:
" So you are saying that every white in this community is ignorant? Who do you think is serving in the military protecting us? Its bleeding heart liberals like you that don’t have things in perspective. Privilege? Most of us are busting our butts to make a living only to have our pay checks drained by leaches of society, white, black, brown, green etc.. All immigrants need to go to the library they can learn about our culture. Assimilate or get out. If you go to another country you Must assimilate to their culture. Ask any military person who have to take classes when they go to another country so they don’t offend the locals. Like I said in my first post, did any of them ever serve in the military, on our side, to deserve coming over here for the free handouts. God Bless America. "
Joey's Opion wrote on Jul 29, 2006 12:05 AM:
" This is how i feel about this, La crosse has alot of other issues and lots of other children and adults that need more help then bringing in others from another country to help, where do your taxes really go, I needed help and always got denied and the people from the county told me I didn't meet the criteria to recive help. Ive lived in my car for many months last year and during the winter and ate food out of the garbage or afterhours from the restraunts, not by choice I was always denied the help.. so you tell me what the problem is here, if you can't help the la crosse people how can you bring in people from out of country and give them what they want and needs.. when you cant help us..... "
chris wrote on Jul 28, 2006 11:51 PM:
" so think before you open up your mouth. IT IS NOT FAIR FOR OTHERS. THAT THEY GET HELP FROM THE COUNTY NOT US. "
chris wrote on Jul 28, 2006 11:46 PM:
" sorry the way i spell fare i was tired when i wrote it. look it is not fair for people to say that they are glad that they are here to work and take other peoples jobs away from them. if you don't like the way i say things TO BAD! i am telling the turth about this people that come here from a different county and get what ever that they want. i would not mine to get a car from the county and money to and food stamps. but i work my butt off to make a dollar to put food on the table and clothes on my kids back.it is not fair that they get help and the people that need help they get turned down. "
Perfect sense.......NOT wrote on Jul 28, 2006 10:58 PM:
" Ok let me get this. We have how many millions homeless? How many are going hungry everyday?How many school children dont even get breakfast everyday? The state of Wisconsin cant even supply dental care for the poor but hey bring somemore over yep our doors are open.
This isnt making any sense to me at all but maybe I missed something. If I did please correct me "
Enough Already wrote on Jul 28, 2006 10:57 PM:
" It would be different if they all could speak our language, but to come here w/11 kids!? Who pays for them to learn our language?.Keep bringing all of non-American's here and wonder why we are all out of jobs...before long,we will all have to pay to go to school to learn another language so we can continue to work. "
Rick Weeth wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:30 PM:
" Take a walk around the city. Look through the attorney section in the phone book. You will see names like Monsoor, Asfoor, Markos and others. These immigrants settled here when this was a rugged logging town in the 1800s and early 1900s. Our city has always had a rich, racially diverse undercurrent to it. Syrian, Greek, Chinese, Turkish, Korean, Iranian, Senegalese, Palestinian, Pakistani, Indian, Sri Lankan, Laotian, Cambodian, Hmong...... all have very decent, very hard working, TAX PAYING citizens living in our city from newly arrived to several generations. "Historic Downtown" is a sham perpetrated by white middle class morons who want to rewrite history into some winter wonderbread fantasy. Learn your own history before rushing to squat on someone else's. "
Rick again wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:24 PM:
" I notice that none of the bigots put their last name on their posts. And yes, cracks about how fiscally responsible you are while assuming that our recent additions to our town aren't IS a bigoted, racially biased comment no matter how you slice it. "
Rick Weeth to "English #1" wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:22 PM:
" Firstly, the vast majority of Asian immigrants who settle in La Crosse, young and old alike, work hard to become US Citizens. In order to do that, learning English is required. Children learn faster with language, and oftentimes spend after school hours teaching their parents and elders English Secondly, you might be wise to start learning Spanish as the majority of US Citizens will speak it either primarily or fluently in 20 years. If you are in possession of a truly forward thinking mind, learn Mandarin Chinese, as it will be the dominant language for world business in forty years' time. "
Karen wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:03 PM:
" To the newest members of our community here in God's Country. I would like to apologize to you from these individuals who for some reason life hasn't gone their way and they feel the need to let everyone know. In La Crosse along with surrounding communities you will find people from many cultures living amongst each other. People who have opened up their minds and their hearts to get know one another regardless. This is a wonderful area to live in and I hope some day you realize this. I would also like to say "Thank You" to everyone for making this a wonderful place to live. God Bless You. "
re: thorn wrote on Jul 28, 2006 8:41 PM:
" as far as your "offspring" remark...GEESH..what a bigot/racist remark!"
AND IT WHAT MEANT TO BE
"
Hey kids wrote on Jul 28, 2006 8:31 PM:
" Hey everyone, they're here and all of your immature complaining is not going to make them go away. They have the same chance to make it in this country as everyone else, and if you are against the idea of a meritocracy where people rise and fall based on the merits of their work and their character, you are among the first I would like to see deported. Welcome friends! "
Welcome Friends wrote on Jul 28, 2006 8:05 PM:
" "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore, send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed, to me: I lift my lamp beside the golden door." I support any hard working immigrants moving here. My tax dollars are much better spent on them than the uneducated multi-generational families who just don't can't figure it out(see use of "fare" below). "
Thorn wrote on Jul 28, 2006 8:00 PM:
" It means we should meet our obligations to whatever the State Department promised. Do some research...what exaclty DID we promise this group of people, and as far as your "offspring" remark...GEESH..what a bigot/racist remark! "
GO DELANEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! wrote on Jul 28, 2006 7:36 PM:
" Way to speak some truth, kid. Never stop. Ever. Please. This country needs more kids like you. "
Rick Weeth wrote on Jul 28, 2006 7:34 PM:
" What a load of xenophobic, racist crap. FIRST.... when you see an Asian family crowded into a minivan, MOST often you are seeing a vehicle that is shared by an extended family of 10-30 people who have pooled their resources. SECOND...yes, political refugees are eligible for assistance from our government. If you haven't been chased through the jungles by people intent on wiping you out, don't complain. THIRD... in most cases, our Asian neighbors are harder working, more socially responsible, and seek more education than any three of their white neighbors. God, I'm surprised someone didn't make a post about eating cats in here! You people make me ill. "
Re: to all wrote on Jul 28, 2006 6:21 PM:
"
to all wrote on July 28, 2006 12:00 PM:
"why bothering your comments they dont put half of them in"
I guess you are right. If the truth hurts....the Trib won't print it.
"
THEY SERVED FOR YOU IN THE WAR WITH VIETNAM!? wrote on Jul 28, 2006 5:59 PM:
" How many years ago was that? Does it mean every offspring for the next 100 years we are obligated to "pay back". We have enough or our own we have an obligation to..... not just in Wisconsin but across the country. "
DELANEY wrote on Jul 28, 2006 5:52 PM:
" TO THOSE WHO ARE AGAINST IT!
I'M 12 YEARS OLD AND I KNOW MORE THAN YOU!!!!!!!
i can't believe that people that i look up to would do this!!!!!
wow i no better now!!!!!!
I bet half of you never even met any hmong people and you have no right to do this to them!
what if you part of this family and aevery time you go out someone is mad at you or your sister or brothers! think about it!
"
I'm an immigrant too.. wrote on Jul 28, 2006 5:46 PM:
" I have to shake my head at the people who have conveniently forgotten that unless you are of the Native population, just a few short generations ago, you were an immigrant too. Perhaps we wouldn't have as many housing issues if Gundersen Lutheran/SFMC wouldn't keep buying up housing for parking lots... We would like to welcome all newcomers to our country and look forward to adding your cultures to our melting pot.. "
Katy wrote on Jul 28, 2006 4:30 PM:
" Welcome to America, and welcome to the La Crosse Community. I have had the pleasure & the honor to meet alot of those that have been in the La Crosse Community, and have never had the pleasure of meeting a nicer, more grateful and appreciative group of people before. They are working hard to teach themselves "the American" way, language, etc., but as always there will always be some individuals that are close-minded to newcomers. The family structure among the Hmong community is so very strong, where they all help one another and work together to make things better. Over 60% of them now own their own homes, and less than 3%, I would venture to guess the newest to arrive, still receive assistance. Give our new friends a chance and remember we're all immigrants here. "
I'm homeless wrote on Jul 28, 2006 4:16 PM:
" I'm homeless because I chose this way to live. I don't want to work, I don't want to pay bills, I don't want to rent or to own a house, & I don't want to worry about any thing. Under the bridge is my place so don't blame the new comers, it's not their fault. To those who said Hmong will eat your tax if you are not happy then you can go to apply your public assistance at the county, no one will stop you, many of them are shame to get food stamps & a little money to support themselves. Only if you want to be that way too, then go ahead to become an AFDC client to see you will be more satisfy. "
Barbara Drogseth wrote on Jul 28, 2006 4:04 PM:
" I have worked with the Hmong community for over 10 years. As we discussed the comments made regarding this article the overriding sentiment was appreciation for the many open hearted gracious people in LaCrosse and acceptance of the negativity. Everyone has a right to their own opinion. Gotta love the Hmong..... they seem to understand the concept of America better then most!! "
what's the difference? wrote on Jul 28, 2006 3:56 PM:
" How is a Hmong family any different than a white woman with 6 kids from 6 dads living off of our taxes? I love it when they walk into a health care facility with their leather jacket, cellphone, kids dressed in gap clothes and present a medical assistance card! At least these people are trying! "
Welfare program wrote on Jul 28, 2006 3:55 PM:
" Public assistance is only a temporary funding to help those people who have the barriers to look for employment, but not only for the lazy people like you think. Because they have no language, no skills to look for job that's why this funding is available just to help them for a little while. So don't worry about your tax dollars will increase on your next pay check. "
Eve zellmer wrote on Jul 28, 2006 3:19 PM:
" What I meant was, thank you to those who have taken the OPPORTUNITY to educate yourselves on the Hmong. We are not the only country who has assisted in rescuing the Hmong refugees. They live all over the world. I would suggest that some bloggers take a moment to google and get the facts on Hmong refugees. "
Eve Zellmer wrote on Jul 28, 2006 3:04 PM:
" I those of you who have taken the OPPORTUNITY to educate yourselves on the Hmong. I have been working with the Hmong community since January and have found them to be very hard working, dedicated, and selfless people. Hmong refugees have settled in California (largest population), Minnesota and Wisconsin. Currently in La Crosse County less than 3% recieve some form of assistance, over 60% own their own home. The Hmong Mutual Assistance Association will assist them in getting jobs, learning English, and acclimating to American life. These people are our neighbors, our co-workers and some day hopefully you will call them your friends. "
Thorn wrote on Jul 28, 2006 3:03 PM:
" If my history serves me correct the Hmong are from Cambodia, NOT Vietnam. The US State Department made "promises" to these people if they helped us prosecute the Vietnam conflict from Cambodia. Then when we had to haul a** with our tails between our legs, the State Department(as usual) conveniently forgets to back it's promises. Then along come the Khmer Rouge (sp?) = killing fields. These people saved countless US lives during the Vietnam conflict then were slaughtered by the MILLIONS because we deserted them. As a retired military officer "Welcome to America" folks, you deserve it. "
R. Larson wrote on Jul 28, 2006 2:49 PM:
" Thank you Ellen for your comments and signing your name. "
Viva la' resistance wrote on Jul 28, 2006 2:37 PM:
" Apparently France owes me a house, relocation allowance, vehicles, welfare, sympathy & pity. Who would have thought? The good part is that when I move there I won't even have to learn French! "
randy larson wrote on Jul 28, 2006 2:33 PM:
" i totally agree with you i worked at trane co for 33 years and a vast migority of the workers were homong too many people out there just want to piss and moan and sound like 2 yr olds grow up...... ellen valentine. "
Kids are expensive wrote on Jul 28, 2006 2:28 PM:
" I agree with Everyday Joe. If it's a daily struggle to live and get by, why would rational, intelligent adults continue to have more and more children? The La Crosse economy is not that strong...I cannot be convinced by anyone that parents of 15 kids are not receiving government/state support and/or welfare. "
Are you a Vietnam Vet (on either side)? wrote on Jul 28, 2006 2:09 PM:
" Many of you have used the argument that "they" helped "us" during the Vietnam war so we owe them. My problem is that "they" doesn't apply to most of them and "us" doesn't apply to most of you. The very large majority of them didn't fight in the war and the large majority of you didn't either. The Vietnam Vets on both sides that fought in that horrible war should have their entitlements, respect and recognition. Everyone else should ramble on with their arguments and opinions and somehow believe that the entitlements should spill over to them based strictly on association, affiliation or relation. The fact that you may have sympathized or even had your entire life change because of that war does not entitle you to special treatment or favor. "
Everyday Joe wrote on Jul 28, 2006 1:54 PM:
" ELEVEN CHILDREN!!! How on earth do these people think that they can support 11 kids with no education and no English speaking skills?? Is this possible?? I don't think that I could afford 6 children even with an education and English skills. I don't mean to come across as a jerk, but let's be real about this!! Who is going to foot the bill?? I bet the tax payers will be covering a majority of their expenses. They might receive a lot of help from churches and the Hmong community, but health care will be paid by you and I. Every time someone gets assistance from the county, state, or fedral government WE pay for it. "
Re-Jon and Chris wrote on Jul 28, 2006 1:45 PM:
" I'm assuming you are white(Caucasian) and to ignorant to know that you have prilivage. There's no other country in the world that a person can exercise his or her freedom and rights other than "America." You sound like this is your country, and certain people need to meet your standards to live here. Take a chill-pill, and go the the public library and read about the Hmong culture. This will change your thoughts, that if you have an open mind. Remember the Hmong people can not go back to their homeland to live again. As an American citizen we have that freedom to move throughout the "United States" where ever we want too...Welcome home Hmong people. "
Randy Larson wrote on Jul 28, 2006 1:32 PM:
" I have worked with Hmong community on many occasions and the vast majority of the people that I have met have jobs, own their own homes,and are not on public assistance.
The La Crosse area has welcomed a number sister cities that are located throughout the world which have enriched our community. Give the Hmong community a chance to participate in what makes
living in this area so great. If you are going to comment on what I have written I would appreciate it if you would sign with your full name. Thanks "
Amy wrote on Jul 28, 2006 12:14 PM:
" Welcome to America!
The land of oppertunities, may they take this chance to do better for them self and help others understand what they have been though. "
to all you babys wrote on Jul 28, 2006 12:03 PM:
" quit ******* and moaning and grow up. "
to all wrote on Jul 28, 2006 12:00 PM:
" why bothering your comments they dont put half of them in "
A Hmong Immigrant wrote on Jul 28, 2006 11:23 AM:
" What a huge effort it took to bring this one family to the United States. It gave me a much better appreciation for what had to take place before my own family came from Thailand in January 1979. I was only 6 years old when my parents and 4 brothers and sisters arrived. I'm so grateful to all my family and church who spent countless hours and dollars on getting our family adjusted to life here. By the way, my father began working within 4 months of our arrival at a factory even though he didn't speak a word of English. This same job has helped all 6 of his children through college. And yes, we do pay our taxes. Be open-minded. You never know how this family may contribute to your community. "
Great.... wrote on Jul 28, 2006 11:13 AM:
" Where are my rewards for being here? I haven't ever just "received" free money from our government without earning it, nor should these people. "
English#1 wrote on Jul 28, 2006 11:03 AM:
" The articles states that "the children will have to learn English"... what about the adults? Legal immigration includes learning the language. "
Unjust wrote on Jul 28, 2006 10:44 AM:
" the United States did not abandon anyone. The war in Vietnam was not our war. That statement is ignorant. It would compare to the US getting involved in a conflict with Mexico. Canada decides to come down and help us fight the war. They pull out their troops and end their part of the conflict. Does Canada now OWE US a place to live and monetary assistance, housing assistance, college tuition assistance etc.? Absolutely NOT
"
Thanks Jon & Chris wrote on Jul 28, 2006 10:41 AM:
" Jon & Chris are just saying what, I and most of the people I know believe. Tax freedom, cars, handouts. The article never said if any of the adults actually fought in the war. Thanks to all the bleeding hearts for making our taxes go up. "
This is for Chris wrote on Jul 28, 2006 10:28 AM:
" You need to look at the history of the Hmong and the Americans before you talk all your stuff. Maybe you will find out why they are being helped out so much. You need to read Cindy's note. You need to relax, the homeless are that way because of their choices, there are organizations out there for them too, you just don't choose to look for them. Chill out, and don't get all jealous, once they settle down, they'll find a job and be on their feet. "
Indeed chris, wrote on Jul 28, 2006 10:00 AM:
" and the new cars they are given too. Please tell me more about that. What they are given is a meager amount to get started in an entirely new culture and way of life. You, on the other hand, don't need that acclimatization, although judging by your comment you obviously could use some education. It's good to see La Crosse's ignorant bigots show their true colors here. "
to american born white woman and reconsider..from a white woman wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:56 AM:
" Why don't the "American born" soldiers get the same benefits as these people get. If America is going to GIVE to one person they need to GIVE to all. Have you ever seen the number of Vietnam Vets that are homeless????????
"
TAX PAYER wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:52 AM:
" I cannot agree more with Chris and Jon...I also agree that yes, this is God's earth and all races and people should be able to live here, but we should all have the same rights and recieve the same benefits. Everyone should have to work for their food, shelter, clothing, vehicles, etc....unless they were dealt a bad deck of cards and are unable to work due to disabilities. "
Mary Eggen wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:36 AM:
" Welcome to the U.S. and God bless you and your family. "
Jesse wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:31 AM:
" America is a nation of immigrants and refugees, a nation of democracy. The new arrivals have as much fear as everybody else when they came to this country, and they would appreciate some hospitality and kindness of people in the hood. Lets give the children and their parents education and find them job that will move them forward to be a part of the society. Success awaits people who have vision, hope, and dream, and have the characteristic of "can do" and "will do it". "
disgusted wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:26 AM:
" I'm disgusted with the first two comments here. These people were displaced after the United States abondoned them when we pulled out of the Vietnam war. The Hmong were our allies in fighting against the vietcong. When we chickened out and abandoned them, they were forced out of their country and have lived as refugees ever since. With that in mind, don't you think our country owes them a little something? As for wanting money, you were lucky and were born here not in a refugee camp in Laos it is not our governemnt's fault that you are too lazy to make something of your life. "
White-La Crosse Wake up wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:20 AM:
" Welcome to "America" Hmong people. This is the land of "Freedom." This is God's country and he put people like Mr. Sage in the path for helping make the transition go smooth. Your people did a lot for our government and people like, "Chris and Jon" don't even appreciate it. La Crosse is God's country and ALL his people are welcome here including the Hmong. The comment that was made about "Homeless People", Well, those people choose to live their life that way. Because La Crosse has more resources to go around for any person who choose to live here. Remember, this is a wealthy county and La Crosse could use some diversity. "
Do gooders wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:19 AM:
" Another case of "do gooders". The church helps bring them in and dumps them on the taxpayers. Why should they have it better than the ones of us that have been working for years? As a taxpayer why can't I get in line for my shareof the handouts? "
spell check wrote on Jul 28, 2006 9:11 AM:
" Chris, I know you're wound up, but take a breath and check your grammar. I hardly understood what you were trying to portray with the misuse of the word "fair." Besides, when trying to make a point, it makes you look kind of ignorant. "
Reply to Chris wrote on Jul 28, 2006 8:59 AM:
" Where did you read they get money for seven years? I must have missed that in the article above. You can get money too, it's called get a job. We have too many people getting assistance from our county that don't need it or would not need it if they get the education they need and get a job and stop asking the county for help. Nothing is fair in life, life is what you make it. "
a father wrote on Jul 28, 2006 8:50 AM:
" lots of kids...how come I feel like my taxes just went up. "
$425 wrote on Jul 28, 2006 8:33 AM:
" Land of the free? Huh. How about land of the free-loaders. Who do I need to contact to get my $425? "
Cindy wrote on Jul 28, 2006 7:46 AM:
" In response to "chris" and "Jon," I don't think you understand the whole situation of the Hmong resettlement. The result of the resettlement comes from a promise made decades ago by the American government. It's not about these people coming to the U.S. to live off the government. It's not about all the money and free resources that they receive for the time being. They come to America to find safe refuge from crooked politics and to give their children a chance in life. Could you survive without any financial support in a different country? Would you be able to communicate with others what you want and don't want in life? Would you and your family be able to adjust easily to a new lifestyle? It's not as simple as you may think it is. "
me wrote on Jul 28, 2006 7:37 AM:
" Welcome family...Good wishes for your future and success in your new life. "
Re-consider wrote on Jul 28, 2006 7:24 AM:
" Before you whine about your tax dollars, think about WHY they are given amnesty. THEY SERVED FOR YOU IN THE WAR WITH VIETNAM. These fine people should be welcomed just like any other soldier. They should be treated equal to the returning 458th division, because not only did they aid the United States Government, they have been waiting for 10 years for us to create a space for them.
I welcome them with open arms. "
American born-white woman wrote on Jul 28, 2006 7:01 AM:
" Most of our community is generous and accepting. However, it is amazing how closed-minded some people can be! You think you kn
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