Son La, a land of diverse cultures, is striving to preserve and promote the unique traditional values ​​of the Mong ethnic group. In the context of integration and development, preserving cultural identity is not only the responsibility of the government at all levels, but also the mission of the entire community.

A Hmong woman in traditional attire is weaving linen fabric.

Son La, where nearly 16% of the population are Hmong people, boasts a vibrant cultural treasure. From colorful traditional costumes to unique languages, traditional festivals, exquisite crafts, and folk games, all are pieces that create a diverse and rich cultural landscape.

The Gau Tao festival of the Hmong people, with its vibrant flute dances.

However, in the process of integration and development, many precious cultural values ​​of the Hmong people are gradually fading away. In addition, some outdated customs and influences from incompatible beliefs also pose significant challenges.

Tourists experience pounding sticky rice cakes at a tourist spot in Moc Chau.

In response to this situation, various levels of government, sectors, and localities in Son La province have been implementing many practical solutions. Mr. Pham Hong Thu, Deputy Director of the Provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said: "The Department is implementing the Project 'Preserving and promoting the value of folk songs, folk dances, and folk music of ethnic minorities in Son La province associated with tourism development in the period 2021-2030'." At the same time, plans for cultural preservation and community-based tourism development are also being implemented.

In particular, the implementation of Conclusion No. 335-KL/TU of the Provincial Party Committee on the "Project for building and developing culture and people of Son La" is an important basis for all levels and sectors to coordinate effectively in implementing solutions for cultural preservation and development.

Artisan Trang A Lenh is playing the khene (a type of bamboo flute) in Long Cang village, Muong La, a village famous for its Hmong people who are skilled at making khene and performing khene dances in traditional festivals.

In Bac Yen district, where over 47% of the population are Mong people, the preservation and promotion of cultural identity is given special attention. The district has issued a resolution on this matter and successfully organized many festivals such as the Lotus Lake Festival, the Horse Racing on the Clouds Festival, the Ancient Stone Cave Festival... to meet the cultural and spiritual needs of the people and attract tourists.

"These activities not only enrich the cultural and spiritual life of the Mong people but also contribute to spreading love and preserving the beauty of traditional culture among the younger generation," emphasized Mr. Do Van Nham, Permanent Deputy Secretary of the Bac Yen District Party Committee.

A corner of Moc Chau night market, with stalls displaying traditional products of the Hmong people.

Moc Chau town is also actively involved in organizing training courses, teaching folk culture, reviewing artisans, preserving traditional architecture, costumes, cuisine, festivals, and characteristic cultural activities. Tourist areas and attractions in the town also dedicate spaces to recreating Mong culture, offering interesting experiences for visitors.

Artisan Trang A Lenh, from Long Cang village, Muong La district, shared: "Preserving culture is essential to pass it on to future generations, so that when we get old, our children and grandchildren can continue to preserve and promote it."

Mr. Pham Hong Thinh further stated that the recognition of intangible cultural heritage at the national level, such as the clan worship ceremony, the art of playing the Hmong flute, and the art of creating patterns on Hmong costumes, has contributed to reviving national pride and encouraging the Hmong community to proactively preserve and develop their cultural heritage.

Preserving, restoring, and promoting the distinctive cultural characteristics of the Hmong ethnic group is a crucial task for the entire political system. The goal is to safeguard valuable cultural values ​​that are at risk of disappearing, while simultaneously influencing the mindset and raising awareness within the community regarding the preservation of ethnic identity.

Source: vtv.vn