“As a Lao American, I have had to grow into loving our culture.”
-Michael Sompasong Sengmanivong, 42, LA, CA
“I think most of it derives from the need to assimilate at a very young age.”
“Growing up in a predominantly caucasian neighborhood really influenced my behaviors to limit my embrace in being Lao. Up until I was about 16, I would avoid speaking lao and would only eat Lao food in my home, not sharing it with any school friends.”
“Now that I think back, I’m thankful that my parents and family continued no matter what to speak Lao, eat Lao food, and keep the Lao culture while I was growing up.”
“A couple things that I have learned to love: One is sharing the food from Laos. By now, I have introduced many friends to Lao foods.”
“Whether we are in Milwaukee, Dallas, San Diego, or LA we check out different restaurants..
It can be going to eat at a Lao restaurant or cooking it myself.”
Photo of Michael’s friends.
“Most recently, I.
have been making simple Lao meals
at home for friends.
That’s one of the hallmark things with our culture; eating and socializing
.”
“This is what I recently cooked for a couple of my girlfriends.”
- Photos of sticky rice, cucumber salad, meat salad, and tomato-based sauce.
“There are many things to love about our culture, but Lao food is the main thing that I share with friends.”
“Secondly, I have learned that being Lao is really unique and cool.”
“Many do not know
of Laos when mentioned, but it
has been fun to
teach others. This December, if plans
go right, I’m taking
a few friends with
me to Laos 🇱🇦.
