Meet Noi
- Mark Vella, founder
Who are the Mon People?
The Mon are an ethnic group primarily residing in Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand. With a rich history dating back centuries, they were one of the earliest civilizations in Southeast Asia, playing a significant role in the spread of Theravada Buddhism throughout the region.
Traditional Mon arts include intricate wood carvings, silverwork, and the creation of beautiful pagodas. Their literature, often written in the Mon language, encompasses poetry, prose, and religious texts.
The Mon people have also been influential in shaping the architectural and cultural landscape of Myanmar and Thailand. Many of Myanmar’s iconic religious structures, including some of its oldest pagodas, reflect Mon artistic styles and craftsmanship, highlighting their lasting impact on regional aesthetics.
Their early kingdoms, such as Dvaravati and Thaton, were centers of learning and trade, facilitating the exchange of ideas between India and Southeast Asia.
The Mon Refugee Crisis
Historically, the Mon kingdoms flourished in what is now Myanmar and Thailand. However, they faced periods of conflict and oppression, particularly during Burmese rule.
These historical experiences have significantly impacted the Mon people, leading to displacement, cultural suppression, and ongoing struggles for self-determination.
Following Myanmar’s independence in 1948, the Mon sought greater autonomy but were met with military crackdowns.
The formation of the New Mon State Party (NMSP) in 1958 marked an organized effort to resist government oppression, but decades of conflict led to thousands of Mon refugees fleeing to neighboring Thailand.
Many sought shelter in refugee camps along the Thai-Myanmar border, where they have lived in precarious conditions with limited access to basic rights and resources.
Dive deeper into the history and culture of the Mon community – visit our resources page.
