Cambodians in Hawaii and Their Relation to Employment and Welfare

This study of the unusually high level of labor force participation in the Hawaiian Cambodian community includes descriptions of what Cambodians do in Hawaii, demographic descriptions of the community and household units, a description of the influence of the welfare system on the Cambodian community, and ethnographic descriptions of the lives of six individuals. Data were gathered through a 26-question survey and 11 personal interviews. The following findings about Cambodian labor force participation are discussed: (1) Cambodians in Hawaii have a higher labor force participation rate than other refugee groups and the general population; (2) Cambodians in Hawaii have a very low unemployment rate compared to other refugee groups and the general population; and (3) over 50 percent of Cambodian households in Hawaii are fully self-supporting, compared to 36 percent nationwide. The following possible reasons for the high employment rate are discussed: (1) availability of plentiful jobs in the service sector that require minimal training; (2) fewer language problems; (3) pressure from service providers and peers; (4) lower expectations than members of other ethnic groups; (5) emigration of many who do not want to work from Hawaii to California; (6) relatively long stay of Cambodians in Hawaii; (7) creativity in self-employment; and (8) a tradition that encourages women to work outside the home. Statistical data are included on three tables. The appendices comprise the following materials: (1) six personal narratives; (2) a copy of the interview questionnaire; and (3) a list of four references. (FMW)