Acts of Memory
Commemorating Cambodia’s Resilience & Celebrating Cultural Renaissance
On April 17 and 26, 2025, a two-day, hybrid event connecting Khmer communities worldwide, including Cambodia, Australia, France, USA, Canada, and beyond.
Overview
On April 17, 1975, the Khmer Rouge entered Phnom Penh, marking a tragic chapter in Cambodia’s history. Fifty years later, on April 17 and 26, 2025, Cambodian Living Arts, in collaboration with community leaders from around the globe, presents “Acts of Memory.” This initiative aims to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Phnom Penh’s fall and celebrate the resilience and creativity of the Cambodian people.
“In 2025, Cambodia’s story takes center stage as we reflect on its past and envision its future. Through art, culture, and community, we celebrate Cambodia’s resilience and creativity—hallmarks of an international renaissance.” Curated by Jean-Baptiste Phou
Objectives
- Commemoration: Reflect on the historical significance of April 17, 1975, and honor the memories of those affected.
- Celebration: Showcase the resurgence of Cambodian arts and culture, highlighting the community’s resilience.
- Connection: Foster dialogue among Cambodian communities worldwide, creating a platform for intergenerational exchange through arts and culture.
Event Structure
The two-day program will feature a blend of online and hybrid events, ensuring global participation and engagement.
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 resilience of the people.Throughout the day, an open room will be available online, allowing participants to connect, reflect, and commemorate in their own way, at their own pace.The program concludes with a special 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 is an opportunity for Cambodians worldwide to come together, ensuring that history is not forgotten and that the spirit of resilience continues to shine.
Day 2: Hope in Motion (April 26, 2025)
A Global Celebration of Cambodia’s Resilience Through Dialogue and Art
Each host city will present a unique one-hour hybrid event, blending in-person gatherings with virtual participation, ensuring that Cambodians across generations and continents can engage. From Phnom Penh, Sydney, Paris, Long Beach, Montreal, and New York, these events will showcase the diverse stories, traditions, and artistic expressions of Cambodian communities worldwide.Â
Throughout the day, the program will move from city to city, passing the baton across time zones, highlighting local heritage, intergenerational dialogue, and cultural performances. The celebration will culminate in a global conversation—a moment for reflection and vision, looking toward the next fifty years of Cambodian identity, creativity, and connection.
Join us in honoring the past and shaping the future—wherever you are in the world. Discover and share the culture and enduring spirit of Cambodia through a series of unique events hosted by cities worldwide.
Timetable
17 April 2025: Honoring the Past
26 April 2025: Hope in Motion
About Season of Cambodia
Acts of Memory is part of the cultural festival Season of Cambodia (SOC), an initiative by Cambodian Living Arts celebrating the revival of Cambodian arts and culture. Since its inception:
- 2013: The first edition took place in New York City, bringing Cambodian arts to an international audience.
- 2015: The second edition was held in Cambodia, under the name Acts of Memory.
- 2018: The third edition took place in Paris, further strengthening cultural connections worldwide.
Now, in 2025, Acts of Memory continues this legacy, uniting Cambodians across the globe for a landmark 50th-anniversary commemoration and cultural celebration.