Spring 2025
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Coloring Book Teaches Hmong Culture and Energy Conservation
Have you heard of a Hmong story cloth? It’s a handmade fabric that tells the stories of the Hmong people, reflecting their experiences with war, hardships, celebrations and many other significant events. These stories are depicted through handstitched characters, often dressed in traditional Hmong attire.
With an estimate of more than 6,000 Hmong residents in Dane County and many participating in workshops, events and school activities, MGE partnered with a local Hmong artist to create a coloring book inspired by these traditional story cloths. Mai Thao, MGE Customer Engagement Manager and a member of the Hmong community, collaborated with the artist to create “Saving Energy with Tou & Mai,” which teaches students about energy conservation while also highlighting the Hmong culture.
In addition to the coloring book, MGE engages students directly to share how they can conserve energy at home. At the end of the activity, students can color their own character in the book and add it to a large story cloth, symbolizing their journey in learning to conserve energy.
With Earth Day, Hmong Day, and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month approaching, MGE’s “Saving Energy with Tou & Mai” coloring books are available for your classroom. To place your free order, please fill out this form.
