Cambodian American Community

of Washington State:

Bridging the Generation Gap

Authors
Lonny Dara
Connie Mom-Chhing

This past April 17, 2015 marked forty years since the Cambodian Genocide,
otherwise known as The Killing Fields, a dark period in Cambodias history where
millions of Cambodians were tortured and murdered by the Khmer Rouge Regime.
From 1975 to 1979, families were forced to escape their homeland leaving behind
many loved ones. The Khmer Rouge targeted those who were affluent, suspected to
have connection to the government, or held professional status for execution.
Although this atrocious event has left many Cambodian families in a fragmented state,
this may have become a driving force for the Cambodian American community of all
generations to grow, learn, and bridge the generation gap at the 40th Year
Commemoration: Remembering the Past and Welcoming the Future. The previous
generations can offer insight, sharing their knowledge and experiences for the
generations to come.
Together members within the Cambodian American community in
Washington State have worked to create one goal: bridging the generation gap within
the Cambodian American community through outreach and engagement, working
together to remember and honor the past, and envision and plan for the future. With
this goal in mind it was established that the event on August 29, 2015 would be
unique in drawing upon the perspectives of all generations. Each to share experiences
and stories under three categories: Reflection of the past, Resettlement, and Building
Community.
July 13th of 2015 proved to be a significant day as Governor Jay Inslee, had
declared that August 29th will be a day dedicated to reflection on the Genocide in
Cambodia. Baron You was entrusted to write the proclamation on behalf of the

Cambodian Community. Quoted from the Proclamation community leaders and

elders across Washingtonuplift their communities through education and cultural
empowerment This quote reflects the vision the Cambodian American Community
sought out to seek.

DIVERSITY FROM DIFFERENCES

Differences across the generations in the Cambodian American community are
recognized and noted to be a key issue to be addressed for the 40th Year
Commemoration and future events. Every generation has different perspectives
based on their experiences and situations. Case in point, the elder generations
fortunate enough to have survived the war, faced realities of temporary resettlement
in refugee camps, to forced immigration to a foreign country and entirely new culture.
However, the younger generation struggle with balancing bestowed Cambodian
cultural values and traditions, with that of American values. The issue of identity is a
common theme among Cambodian American younger generation as they strive to
understand a cross-cultural identity as American, Cambodian and/or both. With these
differences in place, there is a lack of communication between the two generations.
The Cambodian American community lacks a foundation for the youth to understand
and embrace their own cultural values and traditions. The 40th Year Commemoration
of the Killing Fields provided a much needed opportunity for elders to share their
stories and struggles under the Khmer Rouge regime; thus allowing insight for the
youth to reflect and from which to learn. The event was never intended to be a one-

way-street, with limits to the older generation sharing their voices, but offer the youth
a chance to open up dialog, in which to express themselves and their opinions.

OVERVIEW OF COMMUNITY EVENT PLANNING PROCESS

On January 31, 2015 the Khmer Alliance Foundation hosted an initial planning
conference, which served as a catalyst, moderated by a well-respected senior member
Mr. Marith Chhang with assistance from another senior member, Mr. Van Sar, gained
involvement from 30 affiliates. This meeting was held to brainstorm a resolution on
a community program related to the 40th Anniversary of the exodus of the Cambodian
People. Participants held a lengthy discussion focusing on the commemoration of the
event along with the opportunity to learn the history of the Cambodian genocide,
share personal experiences, and help build the future for the Cambodian American
community. After a much debated discussion, a general consensus was reached to
hold the commemoration event; thus, began the decision of moving forward with the
creation of an Organizing Committee. This newly found committee was responsible
for organizing the event and to work alongside with other non-profit, faith-based, and
businesses organizations as well as community members.

INITIAL CONTRIBUTIONS
To generate funding for the event, a pledge list was asked of the organizations
to donate $500 as a promise to help the Cambodian American community to pursue
a goal of coming together. As a group, the planning committee had hopes that the
program admission would be free and open to the general public. Therefore, a budget

listing was drafted and researched prior to the next scheduled meeting. The drafted
list included cost estimates for facility rental, security, printing & supplies, food (7
course meal), supplies & utensils and a 10% reserved funds.
The role of program coordinator was designated to Mr. William Oung.
Subcommittee chairs were assigned to be responsible for committees objectives and
assignments to their members. Subcommittees were created for Facility, Finance and
Program details. Facility subcommittee was responsible for venues, such as
universities and community colleges, able to accommodate the event. Finance
subcommittee refined and narrowed the estimate minimum and maximum costs.
Program subcommittee branched off into different sections that included
Media/Advertisement, Reflection of the Past, Resettlement, and Building the Future.
Members of the committees were identified based on skills set most suitable
contribution to the team.

OVERVIEW OF PARTICIPATION
Sixteen Khmer Organizations came together to organize and run the planning
committee. With concern that younger generations are not properly represented, the
University of Washingtons Khmer Student Association was invited to join the
planning committee. The list of organization participation include (but were not
limited to the following):

Asian Counseling and Resource Center

Khmer Unity for Cambodia

Cambodian Assistance Foundation

National Cambodian American Organization

Cambodian Cultural Alliance of Washington

Rajana Society

Cambodian Women Health Organization

Searac

Cambodian Women Networking Association

Seattle Sihanoukville Sister City Association

Kampuchean Association of Olympia

United Cambodian Development Association

Khmer Alliance Foundation

UW Department of American Ethnic Studies

Khmer Buddhist Society

UW Department of Communications

Khmer Students Association of UW

Members of the Cambodian American community as well as mainstream

community members were recruited for their appropriate skill sets. As the original
goal is for multiple generations to engage with one another, local Cambodian
American individuals such as business owners, students, etc. were asked to be
involved with this project. Every members skills were of value, despite not having
certain titles to their name. Business owners were asked for their opinion and
inclusion. Students were asked for documentation and technical skills. Each
individual provided a key aspect that contributed to the overall mission.
As a day to honor our history, the Cambodian American community wishes to
include all walks of life to the education of the Cambodian Genocide. Members have
their different reasons of why they are involved with this project, such as preserving
the Cambodian culture, as Mr. Van Sar, (one of the original planners of this committee,
has had a long history of); bridging the gap for the younger generation, as with The

Khmer Student Association, (KhSA). Many of the Cambodian American organizations

all share a common interest to be inclusive of all walks of life to build a bond between
community members, students, families, and friends. To quote a speaker from the
event, Sokheng, Before we start any business together, a relationship must be made.
Coming together as a community is a top priority before we can accomplish our goals.
The event had a good turn-out with community members from all over Washington
as well as members from out of state, such as Illinois, Minnesota, Oregon and Virginia.
Massachusetts State House of Representatives, Rady Mom, was one of the prominent
guests who provided great support during the event. There were various branches of
government officials who came in support of the Cambodian Genocide Memorial Day.

OBSTACLES
With all generations cooperating together, communication barriers were
expected. One such barrier stemmed from the cultural aspect of the Cambodian
American community, where age represents both power and wisdom. For example, it
is an unspoken rule to respect ones elders and to not speak above them, or challenge
their ideas. It was observed at each conference that elders would segregate
themselves; seated directly across the room from the youth. When certain matters
aroused, the youth were silent to allow the elders to first express their concerns.
Although the elders explicitly encouraged the youth to express their voices, a feeling
of familiarity with the hierarchy was needed before engagement. This in itself was an
issue the committee wished to address for the greater community. What are the

messages that each generation wishes to pass on to the other? The elders had hopes
to lead by example, advocating for the youth and providing support. With this how
can an improvement in communication be made?

TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATIONS

Age and personalities bring about communication challenges, without adding
technology to the mix. With the numerous committees, subcommittees and members
reporting to the same network, there were difficulties in keeping track of every aspect
of the program planning progress. Email was used as a basic form of disseminating
information within the groups, which posed another challenge due to varying degrees
of expertise with technology amongst our members. Blanket emails, although allowed
for open communication and fresh ideas, may have caused more confusion since it
allowed side conversations, versus a more structured top-down communication
structure.

DOCUMENTATION OF EVENT
A traditional memorial service called, Bangskol, opened the commencement of
the 40th Year Commemoration. Bangskol is a ritual in Buddhism that is delivered by
monks. There are two types of Bangskol, one for the living and one for the deceased.
The Cambodian culture uses this ceremony as a form of paying respect to those who
lost their lives during the Killing Fields.
After 7 months of planning for the 3 sessions: Reflection of the Past,
Resettlement and Building Community, the team embarked on their mission to share

their cultural-historical sessions. Three rooms were dedicated to holding each

conference session. For the duration of 1 hour, each room focused on one theme with
a different setting that the facilitators proposed for that room. Here are the
summaries for all conference sessions:

Reflection of the Past

Reflection of the Past provides a rare opportunity for conference
participants to hear directly from survivors of the tragic Cambodian genocide
that occurred 40 years ago. Survivors of the Killing Fields will publicly share
their stories for the first time. The stories tell of unimaginable human
hardship and loss, but also of courage, perseverance and the heroic journeys
the survivors have taken to rebuild their lives first in refugee camps and then
in the United States. Conference participants will also get to experience the
survivors memories through the powerful performance of Professor Mark
Jenkins Red Earth, Gold Gate, Shadow Sky, presented by students from the
University of Washington School of Drama.
Resettlement
Resettlement will explore stories about Cambodian refugees experiences
while trying to resettle in the U.S. Statistical information about refugees over
the last 40 years will be examined to add supporting data to the personal
accounts.

Building Community
An open discussion relating our current experiences to the issues we face in
the community. We are pursuing a vision to strengthen the Cambodian
American community and become more successful as a member of the
broader community.

Attendants of the event were observed to be a variety of ages, ethnicities, and

backgrounds. Final attendance exceeded the Conference Planning Committee goal of

400 at a count of 473 registered attendees. 41% of those that were registered were
listed as female. A majority of the audience was from the younger generation fulling
the goal of greater youth participation and helping to close the general gap. Food was
served without any additional orders. The duration of the event was recorded, 8:30
AM-4: 30 PM which was the expected time frame. An additional donation of $1,504
was received at the event.

MESSAGE HIGHLIGHTS FOR FUTURE PROJECTS

The 40th Year Commemoration was overall a successful effort in bringing
together different Cambodian American generations to work towards a common goal
of remembering the past and building a brighter future. It was an event in which the
elders passed on the legacy of their leadership to the younger generation while taking
on a former advisory role. The eight month event planning process was an
educational journey for all involved as they learned to accommodate one another,
build community consensus, attempt to overcome challenges encountered along the
way, and construct the foundation for future community building.
The unprecedented planning process of sixteen different local and national
Cambodian American organizations coming together to reach a common goal
reinforced the strength of long traditional values of respect, community, teamwork,
hard work and perseverance. The planning process further provided insight into the
perseverance. The planning process further provided insight into the challenges and
opportunities of Cambodian American community, especially the younger

generation, in addressing issues of cross cultural and generational communication,

engagement, leadership along with cultural identity and diversity.
The 40th Year Commemoration has laid the foundation for Cambodian
Americans to work toward accomplishing the priorities identified during the
conference for building the community. Achieving the future goals of cultural
preservation, promoting a learning community through educational achievement,
and improvement in economic status of the Cambodian American community
requires the ability to establish and maintain relationship with both local and national
Cambodian American and mainstream organizations. Included in the vision of
building a strong future Cambodian American community is active engagement in
civic duties and leadership development through mentoring and coaching. This vision
is an opportunity for Cambodian American to engage in a process of deep reflection
and discovery as their past does not define their future. The move from the past to
focusing on building a strong community is a common ideal we identified during the
40th Year Commemoration. This common vision will serve as a united force for
Cambodian American to lead their communities and fully participate in the social,
economic and political life of the American democracy.

APPENDIX
Commemoration of the 40th Anniversary of the Cambodian Exodus
Community Meeting
Seattle Public Library - Beacon Hill Branch
January 31, 2015 1:45PM to 4:30PM
Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called by the Khmer Alliance Foundation. There were 30
participants whose name and phone number is listed in the document attached
(Exhibit A). Per the group agreement the meeting was moderated by Senior member
MARITH Chhang, from Kelso, assisted by member VAN Sar. There was no agenda. It
was a strategy brainstorming meeting to get resolution on a community program
related to the 40th Anniversary of the exodus of the Cambodian people subsequent to
the fall of the Cambodia government to the Khmer Rouge in April 1975.
Each of all participants had the opportunities to make short intervention and ideas
around the ideas that if there will be an event that one should incorporate:
1} the commemoration event
2) the opportunity for learning on history about that period
3) the opportunity to share personal experiences, old and new; and
4) the opportunity to help build the future for our community.
It was agreed that the event should be inclusive, to include the religious component,
and open to all.
There will be outreach to all community organizations and to seek for their full
participation to build to spirit of solidarity and fraternity.
The Commemoration event was submitted to vote and there was a general consensus.
After that it was decided to form an initial Organizing Committee to carry out the task
of organizing the event.
It is understood that there will be co-organizers and co-sponsors of the. Co-sponsors
will be comprised of organizations, businesses, and community members that will
contribute funds to the program. The co-organizers are composed of community
organizations that will contribute substantial amount of funds to meet the needs of
the program. There will be an organization that will act as a fiscal agent.
The Organizing Committee may expand its membership and create sub-committees
to fulfill successfully its mission. It is recommended that the Committee will outreach
to all organizations in the list attached (Exhibit B) and that the event will not interfere
with community organizations regular program.
.

Remembering the Past and Welcoming the Future

Minutes of May 17, 2015 Meeting
Burien Library, 400 W 152nd Street, Burien, WA 9816

Attendance
Please refer to the attached May 17 Attendee list.
Agenda
Welcome the new team members, Status Report on Facility, Finance and Program
details for August 29, 2015 event, Food Subcommittees, Other Businesses.
Program coordinator Bill Oung began the session by introducing new volunteers and
committee members.
Bill Oung asked Pakun Sin to facilitate this session.
Status on facility for the August 29, 2015 event
Facility subcommittee chair, Sokha Luy indicated that 3 rooms plus a cafeteria space
have been reserved at the North Seattle Community College. Several planning
committee members visited the site last week.
Finance Status
Finance subcommittee chair Pakun Sin presented the initial estimate of food costs for
400 to 500 attendees. Mr. Sin indicated the food is potluck type and he suggested that
volunteers handle/serve foods that day. The subcommittee continues to seek
individual and corporate donations including non-profit organizations, and local
Cambodian businesses.
Exhibits/Displays
Coordinate by Dr. Meas and his team Baron You and Sieu/Jonathan/Aara Meas. The
team requested an additional room and a one hour of exhibits/display time for the
audience. Room has been agreed as requested. Bill Oung will study the proposed time
line and get back to Dr. Meas. Exhibits/Displays period can be from 1954 to present.
$500 of budget was approved to help pay for posters and related display materials
and supplies.
Program
Coordinator Bill Oung went over an initial proposed program activities of the event
day from 7:20 to 5 pm. All volunteers and committee members are requested to show
up at 7:30 am sharp on August 29, 2015. See the attached proposed activities and
responsibilities.
Mr. Oung requested Sokha Danh- Mr. Mam Danhs son to help set up the traditional
musics and songs at the event.
Hoeurn Mon coordinated the traditional bankskol activity (memorial service).

Jonathan (Jon) Muir and Lonny Dara will record in writing the community effort in
preparation for the commemoration day.
Vanara Yan has agreed to do video documentation of the event and its preparation.
Topic coordinators
Kevin Kdepp has agreed to be the topic coordinator for the 3 Resettlement sessions.
Many Uch volunteered to be one of the speakers in the resettlement topic.
Dareth Pak has graciously volunteered to coordinate the Human Suffering session. It
is suggested that we need facilitators who specialize in mental health to be in all three
Human Suffering sessions. Also, Sokhunthea Ok-volunteered to be a facilitator in a
Human Suffering session.
Parkun Sin coordinates Building the Community topic. Pharin Kong will assist. Ms.
Chanthany Hak suggested that the older and the younger generation need to work
together.
Community Outreach Subcommittee
Subcommittee co-chair Sinoun Hem asked members to help distribute the existing
flyers to local communities. She presented her plan for promoting and bringing 400
to 500 attendees to the August 29, 2015 event. A lengthy discussion on the wording
and replacing the picture of victim skulls due to its graphic nature. Sam Dara,
marketing specialist and college professor, has agreed to help the Community
Outreach subcommittee. Many Uch volunteered to help edit marketing materials.
Baron Yous name was mentioned as someone who can do editing work.
Other Business and Announcements
Jack Wilson from Seattle-Sinhanoukville Sister City Association announced that his
Association has Annual Fund Raising on June 13 , 2015. He distributed flyers inviting
everyone to attend his fundraiser. Jack Wilson can be contact at (206) 459-9766.
Many Uch asked to be contacted should we know of any Khmers who might be caught
in the process of deportation. He suggested that we share the deportation news with
community members. Many Uchs phone numbers is (206) 672-2084
Meeting Adjourned.
Next meeting is on June 14, 2015 at Beacon Hill Library 2821 Beacon Avenue South,
Seattle WA 98144. From 1:30 pm to 4 pm.

Planning Committee
March 29, 2015 Meeting Minutes
Seattle Public Library, Beacon Hill Branch at 2821 Beacon Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144
1:30 PM to 4:30 PM

ATTENDEES: William Oung, Boran Srey Ros, Roth Kchao, Srorn Ros, Jeudi Boulom,
Dani Morton, Lonny Dara, Baron You, Sameth Mell, Sam Tonn, Sokha Luy, Pakun Sin,
Sonnara Meas, Patricia Sing, Vanna Sing, Sinoun Hem, Hoeurn Mon, Jonathan Meas,
Riel Dararak, Piseth Chao, Hak-Ry ONeal.
MEETING AGENDA: 1. Old business (Recap of last meeting conversation), 2.
Secretary of Planning Committee. 3. Financial Plan and Financial Management
(Introducing fiscal agent, financial policy on fund balance, Funding option A, Funding
Option B), 4. Facility (Facility Search and criteria, Preferred facility, food), 5.
Program (Key program focuses, Outcome, Performance Measure), 6. Community
Outreach subcommittee (Promotion/Advertising, Registration, Reception Program),
7. Break out session (Add members to subcommittees, Subcommittee detailed work
plan, Report back), 8. Adjournment.
INTRODUCTION - round table introduction
OLD BUSINESS
William Oung, coordinator, went over the minutes of the March 7, 2015 meeting with
current and new planning members.
PLANNING COMMITTEE BUSINESS
Appointed Hak-Ry to be Secretary of Planning Committee with responsibilities to
document communication and assist in the flow of communication within Planning
Committee.
FINANCIAL PLAN AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Pakun Sin- Chair of Financial Subcommittee presented two cost options (minimum
and maximum) as follows:
Estimated expenditures
Option A - minimum $12,823.72
Low cost estimate items are food, facility, audio, and security.
Option B - maximum $19,712.41
Cost estimate items are food, facility, audio/video system, security, printing and
supplies.

Decision: Planning Committee voted to allow Finance Subcommittee to work within

$12,823 and $19,712 of estimated expenditures.
Decision: To set aside some fund/reserve for entertainment and or cultural program.
Decision: Planning Committee instructed Finance Subcommittee to review
additional funding options: fees from food vendors, volunteers preparing food, and
applying for grants. Current funding sources are seed monies from co-organizers,
donations, and entrance fees.
Decision: Planning Committee voted to allow William Oung and SeattleSihanoukville Sister City Association (SEASIH) to apply for grants. SEASIH is the
applicant and Planning Committee is the sponsoring organization for grant
application purposes.
FUND BALANCE POLICY
Any money left after clearing all financial obligations for the event shall be handled in
a joint custody with three Non-Profit Organizations: Seattle Sihanoukville Sister City
Association, United Cambodian Development Association, and Cambodian Women
Networking Association, with SEAHSIH as the keeper of the fund.
FACILITY
Sokha Luy, Chair of the Facility Subcommittee, went over the teams facility options
(University of WA, Shoreline Community College, Jefferson Community Center, South
Seattle Community College, and North Seattle Community College.
Decision: Planning Committee voted to select North Seattle Community College
located at 9600 College Way North, Seattle, WA 98103. Tel (206) 527-3633 to be the
location of the Event.
PROGRAM SUBCOMMITTEE
The event is to educate and to share with the community the fleeing for life
experience and to share about their resettlement process and experience in the
adopted country and most importantly to share the ideas and hopes with the future
generations. Focusing on obtaining adequate fundings to the support the cost of the
event. (Please refer to the drafted work plan outline).
BREAKOUT SESSION
Attendees were divided into various groups: facility, finance, program, and
community outreach.
Title of the Event
Nine different titles were reviewed and voted on.
Decision: Voted for Remembering the Past and Welcoming the Future: 40 years
Since the Killing Fields.

OTHER BUSINESS
New subcommittee Youth Subcommittee was created and chaired by Lonny Dara.
Community Out Reach Subcommittee plans to create flyers, registration during
Cambodian New Year (the first two weeks of April); asked that all committee
members to assist by providing necessary information to the Outreach Subcommittee
within the time frame.
MEETING ADJOURNED.

DOCUMENTARY PROPOSAL
Writer: Lonny Dara
Advisor: Connie Mom-Chhing
Introduction:
THEME: Multiple generations of the local Khmer community engage one
another and work together to remember and honor the past, but also
envision and plan for the future.
Three Topics

Human Suffering

Resettlement

Building Future Community

Differences across generations
Differences within generations
Create an event that is unique in drawing upon the perspectives of all
generations.
Attempting to utilize a more elaborate planning process and bring together
multiple independent organizations.
Briefing of History
Building Community
Initial Meeting:
Interview program originators for additional background information
Sar Van & Daniel Marith
Implementation:
16 Khmer Organizations
Collaboration of different generations
Planning Process (Planning Committees)

Subcommittees
Overview of participants
Communication with different generations
Observations
Messages across generations
Interview Leads:
Introduction of Leads
Mission and perspectives
Roles and Responsibilities

Processes of selection

Volunteer outreach
Methods of communication
Topics of meetings

Challenges:
Communication
Clarification of goals and responsibilities
Debates and opinions
Entrustment of power
Teamwork => acknowledgement of positions
Highlights:

Unique culture elements

Involving Youth
Each Generation has a voice
Comprehension of each generations messages

Documentation of Event:
Program overview
Speakers
Outcome

Lessons learned
Future References:
How can we replicate/use for future event planning
Audience reaction

Healing process
Tie back to theme
Capture feelings/ emotions amongst different generations

Documentation Interview Questions

1. Tell us your name and what it is you do for a living.
2. How is it that you became involved with the 40 year commemoration event?
3. Multiple generations of the local Khmer community engage one another and
work together to remember and honor the past, but also envision and plan for the
future.
a. Going forward how do you believe future committees can retain the values
of this goal.
4. In the context of 1st generation Cambodian-American immigrants, generation 1.5,
and 2nd generation, what generation do you consider yourself to be?
A.

As _____ generation, can you express the issues you have

observed that may be different than other generations?

B.

How can the generations work with these differences and bring about
change?

5. From what you learned or what you have gathered about the genocide, what
would you like to share about your experiences?
6. After the event, what do you hope to have accomplished?
7. What do you think the Cambodian Communities biggest strengths are
a. How do you think it can be leveraged
8. What kind of advice would you like to give for future generation CambodianAmericans?

HUMAN SUFFERING SESSION PROGRESS REPORT August 2, 2015

INTERVIEW UPDATE:
Sokunthea has completed 3 interviews. Final speakers for Room A for August 29th:
Liz was present for one interview session where two survivors were interviewed by
Sokunthea. She is waiting on a translation of the interview by Sokunthea in order to
begin the written story.
Louk Pou Riel completed 2 interviews in which he recorded himself in absence of
Vannra. He also recorded the interviews conducted by Sokunthea. He has SD card for
the 5 interviews completed. Final speakers for Room B are:

Bunthan Oum

Samet Mom

Dareth has completed 3 interviews. Final speakers for Room C are:

Ngeth Leng

Lanny Taing

Steven Sar

Mau Thi Son

Chara Vy

PROJECT GOAL REMINDER:

Our goal is to capture the stories at 3 different levels:
1. Oral documentation of the stories via videography

2. Written summary of the stories captured via the recorders: Liz, Angie and
Alex
3. Live stories delivered by the speakers/interviewees on 8/29
PLAY/DRAMA MARK JENKINS TEAM:
There will be 30-40 minutes play reflecting the life during the genocides period. Once
the play is done, speakers and audience will be engaged in conversation focusing on
their reaction to the play.
NEED FOR COUNSELING SUPPORT ON AUGUST 29:
Per feedback received from Sokunthea and Dareth, we need to build in counseling
support for the speakers and potentially the audience as well for 8/29. I have
recruited my husband (Sokha Chhing), a Mental Health Professional, to provide
counseling support as needed by the speakers and/or the audience on that date. We
do need more help and will discuss it further with the larger group on Sunday, 8/2.

Ran Yong

Simleang Un

Kuyheng Peng

Progress Report Compiled by Connie Mom-Chhing Page 1

FACILITATORS PREPARATION MEETING FOR AUGUST 29:

Connie will convene a meeting mid-August with all facilitators to prepare for the
event. Meeting will address:

Roles/expectations of facilitators on 8/29

Need for pre-counseling of speakers prior to 8/29

Counseling support of speakers and/or audience during the conference

Plan for potential crisis during the conference

Counseling support of/follow-up with speakers after the conference

Progress Report Compiled by Connie Mom-Chhing

REFLECTION OF THE PAST SESSION

August 29, 2015
Topic
Dr. Connie Mom-Chhing (Vancouver, WA)
Coordinator
CONCURRENT SESSIONS:
Room A
Facilitator:
Sokunthea Ok
Co-Facilitator:
Chanreaksmey Hok
On-Site
Counselor:
Limmailto:uchmoraship@gmail.com
45 Minutes

Speakers:
1. Sothea Thong
2. Kimleang Un
3. Ran Yong

Recorder
Mala

Liz Legg

45 Minutes

Audience Q&A

Room B

Facilitator:
Riel Dararak
Recorder
Co-Facilitator:
TBD
On-Site Counselor: Sokha Chhing
(He will also serve as back-up for
the event)

45 Minutes

Performance: Professor Mark Jenkins Red Earth,

Gold Gate, Shadow Sky, presented by students from Angie Lyons
the University of Washington School of Drama.
Cast Members:
1. Ai Nguyen
2. Jojo Abaog
3. Claire Ong
4. Michael Cercado

5. Michael Chansavang
30 Minutes

Speakers:
1. Samet Mom
2. Bunthan Oum

15 Minutes

Audience Q&A

Room C

Facilitator:
Dareth Pak
Co-Facilitator:
Jenda Mony Kong
On-Site Counselor: TBD

45 Minutes

Speakers:
1. Soeung Taing
2. Nget Leng
3. Lanny Taing

45 Minutes

Audience Q&A

Volunteers for Reflection of the Past:

Topic Facilitators:
Sokunthea Ok (Room A)
Riel Dararak (Room B)
Dareth Pak (Room C)
Topic Co-Facilitators:
Chanreaksmey Hok (Room A)
_______________TBD (Room B)
Jenda Mony Kong (Room C)
On-Site Counselors:
Mala Lim (Room A)
Sokha Chhing (Room B)
______________(TBD)
Recorders:
Alex Montalvo
Liz Legg
Angie Lyons

Recorder

Alex
Montalvo

Translators:
Chandara Sos
Moraship Uch
Luoth Yin
Overall Event Documentation:
Lonny Dara
Jon Muir
Videographer:
Vanarra Yan
Topic Coordinator & Community Advisory:
Dr. Connie Mom-Chhing

Vision Statements

From Dr. Connie:

VISION STATEMENT:
We envision an engaging, vibrant and sustainable community built upon the collective
strengths and wisdom of Cambodian Americans.
MISSION STATEMENT:
Promoting the growth of Cambodian American community by connecting people, ideas
and resources and development of cultural pride.
GOALS:
1. Promote inclusion to enable all Cambodian Americans to participate actively in
social, economic, cultural and political life.
2. Develop and offer diverse community programs and services to enhance the
overall well-being of Cambodian Americans and the community as a whole.
3. Promote arts and culture to help reveal and enhance the underlying Khmer
identity.the unique meaning, value, and character of the physical and social form of
a Cambodian American community.
4. Promote opportunities for life-long learning of Cambodian Americans through
acquisition of knowledge, skills and experience.

From Dr. Jeudi/Team:

VISION STATEMENT:
Cultivating strong relationship to strengthen Cambodian community in Washington
States and around the world.

Visibility of Khmer community with public at large

Acknowledgement of the past

From Charles:
VISION STATEMENT:
This conferences vision is to develop connected, self-aware leaders as a means to
create a united and flourishing Cambodian-American community.
MISSION STATEMENT:
Unite Cambodian-Americans in Washington State to empower the next generation of
leaders with a passion for service and the intent of advocating for healing and
progress in the community.

From Lok Van Sar:

VISION STATEMENT:
To build a strong and vibrant Cambodian Community.
Supported by professionally organized non-profit origination and businesses,
governed by well balanced and inclusive leadership structure, all well connected
locally and nationally.

To do List:
Action Items:

Who will lead this activity?

Name

Flyer Creation Team

Reaching out to University in
WA Team
Reaching to Community
College in Tacoma Team

Community College in Seattle

Team
Community
College
Olympia Team

in

By When : Date
June, 21 July 15, 21, 27,

Community College in Everett

Team

Community
Team

Associations

Buddhist Temples, Tacoma,

Olympia, Federal Way Team
Buddhist Temples in Seattle,
Renton, First Creek Team
Non- profits Organizations
Team
Community
Services
Organizations Team
News Media organization/TV
Channels Team
Writing Invitation team
VIP/Legislators Inviting team
Khmer Business in Tacoma,
Khmer Business in Seattle,
White Center , Everett Team
Action Items

Who will lead this activity

By When : Date