Regarding Lao
and Hmong tensions, yes this is very true. However there are tensions
on both sides. To address your question of why they only stick with
their own group: It is probably because they feel safer and more acceptance
with their own. All groups tend to do this. And if they avoid other
people it could be simply that they are shy or unsure of how others
view them. Therefore they will avoid others (Laotians or otherwise).
Not out of being rude but of uncertainty of what the other side thinks
of them.
Their apprehension
may be because, for example I notice online especially on some newsgroups,
a very anti-Hmong sentiment among Lao people. And I am not certain
why this is either. Additionally, Hmong in the US don't consider themselves
Laotians. They consider themselves Hmong, first and foremost. They
don't necessarily identify with general Laotian identity. Moreover
the Hmong position on the war during the 70s & 80s makes them
even more unsure of what other Lao people think of them.
A similar question
was posed a while back on our Advice Column. However it addressed
a reversal of what you are asking - in this other case it was why
there was Laotian hostilities online against Hmong. Here's the link:
http://laoconnection.com/advice_010120.htm.
If after unsuccessfully
trying to talk to them or trying to be their friends, then don't bother.
Talk or hang out with only individuals you feel you can be friends
with.
I hope this has
provided you with some insight. Your diligence is great.
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