Cassandra Xiong

Cassandra Xiong, is a second-generation Hmong American from Wausau, Wisconsin, who struggled with accepting her Hmong identity while growing up in a predominantly white city. During her time in college she learned about internalized racism in a sociology class. This was the catalyst that began her journey to deconstruct her own internalized racism and reconnect with Hmong culture. Inspired by her studies, Cassandra developed a deep passion for social justice and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Cassandra’s approach to social justice centers on using creative arts to foster collective healing and liberation, especially for Hmong, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ communities. She was a changemaker in the The SEAD Project’s SEA Change Lab in 2023, and has poetry published in the anthology “The Survivors” (2024). She has facilitated art and healing workshops at the 2024 Racial Justice Summit, the Transforming Generations Sib Hlub Circle, and Theater Mu. She also regularly shares her poetry at the Stevens Point Monthly Poetry Open Mic. Cassandra finds healing through writing poetry, making zines and collages, and creating meaningful connections with others.