As a Hmong-American, shedding light on Hmong history is extremely important to me. Very few Americans are aware of the existence of Hmong people and the Secret War. After interviewing my grandparents about their experiences growing up in Laos, surviving during the war, escaping death, and eventually finding refuge in the United States, I decided to take my first step toward creating art about my people. This is for past me, the little girl that was ashamed of being Hmong, and present me, the woman who feels the strength of her ancestors flowing through her veins everyday. This is for my grandparents, who trekked through the jungle and crossed the Mekong River, who have loved and supported me since I was a baby. This is for all Hmong people, all my fellow survivors. Our story deserves to be known. It's been almost a year since I made this. I was hesitant to post it because I feel like it's not done yet, but I eventually realized that it's just that my exploration into this subject isn't done; I don't think it ever will be, and that's okay. This is only the beginning. Peb muaj sia nyob. We have life to live.

To learn more about Jessi, read our interview with her. And be sure to check out her amazing work:
Website: https://www.jeiyex.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeiyex