HR0288 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0288 LRB104 13393 MST 25727 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, April 17, 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the beginning of the Cambodian Genocide, a period of devastating violence during which nearly two million people, more than a quarter of Cambodia's population, lost their lives under the Khmer Rouge regime through mass executions, forced labor, starvation, and disease; and

WHEREAS, In the aftermath of this genocide, the United States became a refuge for tens of thousands of Cambodian survivors and their families, many of whom resettled in Illinois and contributed to building one of the largest Cambodian American communities in the Midwest; and

WHEREAS, Illinois became the first state in the nation to formally recognize the Cambodian Genocide with an annual Day of Remembrance on April 17, reflecting a strong commitment to human rights, historical justice, and the healing of survivors and their descendants; and

WHEREAS, The National Cambodian Heritage Museum and Killing Fields Memorial, located in Chicago, is the first museum of its kind in the United States; it stands as a solemn space for remembrance and education while honoring the strength and resilience of survivors; it also serves as a dynamic cultural institution committed to storytelling, the arts, and healing; its permanent exhibit was developed in collaboration with acclaimed Cambodian American interdisciplinary artist Anida Yoeu Ali, whose work brings survivor narratives to life with authenticity, depth, and dignity; and

WHEREAS, Cambodian American artists and cultural leaders have been essential in preserving and evolving Cambodian heritage; Master Yary Livan, a master ceramicist, has taught generations of students the sacred traditions of Khmer ceramics, ensuring the survival of this ancient art form through education and community practice; and

WHEREAS, Visual artists, such as Narath Tan and Monirith Chhea, explore complex themes of identity, memory, displacement, and justice, enriching public understanding of the Cambodian American experience and the legacy of genocide; and

WHEREAS, Cambodian classical dance remains a powerful medium of cultural storytelling; Charya Burt, a master dancer and choreographer, has preserved and revitalized this art through performance, teaching, and community-based storytelling that bridges generations; and

WHEREAS, The documentary, The Healing Circle: Songs, Stories, and Friendship, directed by Chicago-based Cambodian American filmmaker Thavary Krouch, uplifts the voices of Cambodian women in Illinois who use storytelling and music as tools for healing, remembrance, and self-expression; one participant reflects, "Through storytelling and music, I found a way to connect with my past and heal the wounds that words alone couldn't reach"; and

WHEREAS, Education about the Cambodian Genocide continues to grow across Illinois public schools due to the tireless advocacy of leaders such as Laura Ouk, who has championed inclusive, survivor-informed genocide curriculum and public awareness; and

WHEREAS, The Cambodian Association of Illinois has been a cornerstone of the community since its founding, with co-founder Kompha Seth playing a key role in establishing critical programs that serve survivors and preserve Cambodian heritage and culture; and

WHEREAS, Cambodian Americans in Illinois have become civic leaders, artists, educators, entrepreneurs, and public servants; among them is Khemarey "Khem" Khoeun, who made history as the first Cambodian American woman elected to public office in the United States and served the Village of Skokie with distinction and dedication to inclusive governance; and

WHEREAS, Cambodian Americans throughout Illinois continue to enrich the state through invaluable contributions in education, the arts, healthcare, business, and public service; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we solemnly commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Cambodian Genocide, honor the memory of the victims, and recognize the strength, resilience, and enduring contributions of the Cambodian American community in Illinois and beyond; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we celebrate the work of artists, educators, and cultural leaders, including Anida Yoeu Ali, Master Yary Livan, Narath Tan, Monirith Chhea, and Charya Burt, who continue to shape a living legacy of remembrance, cultural identity, and healing; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we honor the advocacy of Laura Ouk, the community leadership of Kompha Seth, and the historic public service of Khemarey Khoeun whose contributions exemplify the Cambodian American community's commitment to justice, healing, and equity; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be presented to the Cambodian Association of Illinois, the National Cambodian Heritage Museum and Killing Fields Memorial, and all named individuals as a symbol of deep respect, remembrance, and solidarity.