In what ways can water heal? Shaman Yang Cheng (Yaj Ceeb Vang) and medical anthropologist Dr. Mai See Thao engage in a dialog about the ways water surfaces in their work and practice. Yang Cheng discusses the multiple functions of water (clean water, honest/clear water, holy or magical water, poison water, and shamanic/dragon’s water) in Hmong cultural and religious practices. Dr. Thao explores the intersection of social memory, historical trauma, and water. Together, they explore the potentialities of reengaging water and water’s healing properties to arrive at practices of healing for the body and Hmong communities.

This conversation is cosponsored by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the Minnesota Humanities Center, and the Institute on the Environment.