About Us

Our Vision: A Chance for Higher Education

The Burmese Community of Kansas is part of a growing population of more than 300,000 Burmese Americans living across the United States—from Dallas and Tulsa to Indianapolis, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., and beyond.

Burmese Americans represent a rich diversity of ethnic, religious, and linguistic groups. Immigration has taken place in waves: the first in the 1960s, the second in the 1990s, and the most recent since 2000, when thousands of refugees—especially from the Karen, Karenni, Chin, and Kachin peoples—resettled in the U.S. due to political violence, ethnic persecution, and religious restrictions in Burma (Myanmar). Many of these communities are predominantly Christian, though the Burmese diaspora in the U.S. is religiously and culturally diverse.

Kansas City is home to over 4,500 Burmese Americans. Welcomed as new Americans, they have worked diligently to build a better future while preserving their cultural and spiritual heritage.

Commitment to Education and Opportunity

The community places a strong emphasis on education. After-school programs provide English language learning, homework help Our college and career preparation readies our students to get a quality education from our surrounding universities and colleges. The citizenship classes allow our groups to find a permanent home in the United States, contributing to our communities and nation. Our local public schools have partnered in this effort, helping children adapt and succeed in a new education system.

• Students: Many Burmese American students have graduated from local high schools, though language barriers and limited scholarship opportunities present challenges for pursuing higher education. The community supports them through tutoring programs led by bilingual teachers who help bridge cultural and linguistic gaps.

• Adults: Adult members of the community face other challenges in employment, integration, and citizenship. Through adult education and citizenship programs, legal immigrants and others are being equipped for better job opportunities, longer-term stability, and successful participation in American civic life.

Our Welcome

We are committed to supporting all who are in need, regardless of racial or ethnic background. Our doors are open to every neighbor seeking help with education, employment, integration, or belonging.

Together, the Burmese Community in Kansas continues to grow in resilience, hope, and opportunity—building bridges across cultures and contributing to the vibrant life of our city.