Acts of Memory

Commemorating Cambodia’s Resilience & Celebrating Cultural Renaissance

On April 26, 2025, this hybrid event will connect 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 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 Details

The one day program will feature a blend of online and hybrid events, ensuring global participation and engagement.

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. 

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

Time Zone Converter

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.