Introduction / History

The Hmong Daw (called "White Miao" by the Chinese) take their name from the traditional color of their women's skirts. However, "In many locations in China the Hmong Daw have adopted the dialect and clothing styles of other Hmong groups, most notably the Light Hmong [Hmong Leng] but in more remote areas ... the dialect is still powerful and 'pure.'"

The Hmong Daw are scattered throughout southern China and Southeast Asia as a result of Chinese military attacks. The conventional method of these wars was to besiege the Hmong [Miao] from three sides, leaving only mountains to the west open to escape. "The defeated Miao retreated through the hills ... relying on their matchless climbing skills. This explains a Miao inclination to describe the west as a desirable destination."

Many continued west, especially when communist revolutions and violence drove them out of Vietnam and Laos in the late 1970s. One of their places of refuge was France, which once held Vietnam and Laos as colonies.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Hmong Daws have been in France since the 1980s. By now, most are integrated into French society. They try to maintain their culture through special events. Each year, they come together to celebrate the Hmong New Year. Hmong Daw women are skilled embroiderers. Mothers teach their daughters these skills at an early age. French is replacing their Hmong Daw language, especially among the young.

What Are Their Beliefs?

For centuries, the Hmong Daw were animists, living in fear of the spirits around them. In 1919 missionary Gladstone Porteous wrote, "Quite recently the White Miao [Hmong Daw] have shown interest in the gospel. ... [They asked] for an evangelist to go with them and help them to burn up their objects of demon worship and teach them the gospel." Radio broadcasts have proven to be a highly effective tool for evangelizing the Hmong Daw. In the mid-1950s hundreds of Hmong Daw in Laos came to Christ as a result of radio broadcasts. The "radio revival" has been fueled by the delivery of Bibles in their language. Thus, they were highly Christianized before they came to France.

In secular France, the Hmong Daw are over half Christian, with a vibrant Evangelical community. They have a complete Bible and many gospel materials in their language.

What Are Their Needs?

Hmong Daws need the spiritual hunger it takes to embrace Christ in a place where they are given the choice between secularism and Buddhism.

Prayer Items

Pray for Hmong Daw Christians to take the gospel to others and disciple them in the ways of Christ.
Pray for them to reach those who lack the hope of Christ in France.
Pray for a Holy Spirit-led revival that will bless their families and communities.

Scripture Prayers for the Hmong Daw in France.

References

Operation China, Asia Harvest, Copyrighted © Used with permission.
https://3hmoob.net/understanding-and-analyzing-the-hmong-community-in-france/