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.

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.

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. 

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.