Mary Kong is the former President of the Hmong Center of Green Bay. 

The Hmong community first came to the United States as refugees after many fought, as guerrilla soldiers, for the U.S. Military in the Vietnam War. 

Kong said many churches in Wisconsin sponsored Hmong refugees to come to the United States. She added that the welcoming community across the state, and being close to other Hmong people, was a big reason why so many chose to stay in the Badger State. 

Kong estimates the Hmong community in the Green Bay area is between 8,000 and 10,000 people. 

Wisconsin also boasts vibrant Hmong communities in metro areas like Milwaukee and La Crosse. 

Kong said Hmong families tend to place a heavy emphasis on education, career advancement, and close relationships among families and the different clans they belong to.

You can watch the full interview with Mary Kong above.