Mary Risseeuw MA, MFA

There have been four significant waves of Dutch immigration to Wisconsin since the 1840s. What they found here was a delicate interplay of immigrant cultures at work, at worship, and in relationships. Their story is one of building community and decisions made on accepting the ‘outsider’—and being one. Renowned writer and speaker in both the United States and Netherlands, Mary Risseeuw takes listeners on a journey from the farms of Holland to diverse endeavors of Europeans of Sheboygan County.

The perception of America as a safe haven and beacon of freedom have shaped its role as a destination for refugees and migrants worldwide. However, immigrant policies are known for being confusing. Explore this history and how it has influenced policy and human rights around the world with Dr. Alise Coen, professor of Political Science at UW–Green Bay.

Dr. Pao Lor shares his first hand account of being a young boy who fled Laos, lived in a Thai refugee camp, and moved to America in this talk and in his book Modern Jungles, published by the Wisconsin Historical Society Press. He also shares his scholarship on the Hmong American experience as the dean of the School of Education at UW–La Crosse including research on Hmong leadership, women, and education.

Modern Jungles Book Discussion

Mead Public Library Non-fiction Book Club
Monday April 13, 2026
6:00pm-7:00pm

*Book copies available at Mead Public Library and for sale at the Museum Store and WordHaven Bookshop.