Day 1: Honoring the Past (April 17, 2025)
50th Anniversary Remembrance of the Fall of Phnom Penh
The day begins with an online opening event, uniting hosts from Cambodia, Australia, France, Canada, and the USA. Together, they will share a moment of collective reflection, discussing the lasting impact of this historical day on their communities. This will be accompanied by commemorative performances by Cambodian artists, honoring the people's resilience. Throughout the day, an open room will be available online, allowing participants to connect, reflect, and commemorate in their way, at their own pace. The program concludes with a unique hybrid event in Chicago, led by The Cambodian American Heritage Museum & the Killing Fields Memorial. This two-hour gathering will feature storytelling and a Bangskol Ceremony, incorporating candle lighting, moments of silence, and traditional prayers.
This 50th-anniversary remembrance allows Cambodians worldwide to unite, ensuring that history is not forgotten and that the spirit of resilience continues to shine.
Opening Ceremony (Online) – A collective reflection with hosts from six countries featuring live performances by Cambodian artists.
Global Open Reflection Room – A virtual space for remembrance and personal reflection.
Hybrid Chicago Program – A two-hour event by The Cambodian American Heritage Museum & the Killing Fields Memorial, including storytelling, ceramic art presentations, and a Bangskol Ceremony (candle lighting, moments of silence, and traditional chants).
Learn more: https://www.cambodianmuseum.org/acts-of-memory