Iu-Mien Youth Band

Music is vital for cultural preservation, acting as a bridge between generations. For Iu-Mien children, it provides a rare opportunity to participate in an enriching activity that might otherwise be inaccessible. The Iu-Mien Youth Band, founded in the fall of 2023, was created not only to offer this opportunity but also to inspire more young people within the Iu-Mien community to explore and appreciate music.

One of the challenges in the Iu-Mien community is the limited youth engagement and access to cultural activities. The Iu-Mien Youth Band addresses this by creating an inclusive space where children and teens can connect with their heritage through music. The band is also open to other interested young people in the BIPOC community, encouraging broader participation and cultural exchange.

Led by mentors Som Lee, Angela Lezheo, and Jayden Lee in partnership with United Mien Youth Of Washington (www.mienyouthwa.org), the band meets once or twice a month, either at our community center or online, to practice a diverse repertoire that includes traditional Iu-Mien songs and modern American music. The band will showcase their talents at community events such as the Iu-Mien New Year and the Summer Iu-Mien Festival.

Through this band, music becomes a powerful platform for connecting generations within the Iu-Mien community, fostering a sense of continuity, cultural pride, and unity.