Governor Proclaims Cambodian Heritage Month

Cambodian Heritage Month

2025

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, the Cambodian American community has played an integral role in enriching the cultural, social, and economic fabric of North Carolina since their arrival in the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge genocide, rebuilding their lives and contributing to the growth and diversity of the state; and

Whereas, since the 1980s, Cambodian families have established vibrant communities throughout North Carolina, preserving their cultural heritage while contributing to civic life, small business development, education, and faith-based engagement; and

Whereas, temples and cultural centers such as Wat Greensboro, Wat Charlotte, and Wat Lexington have served as spiritual and cultural hubs, fostering the intergenerational transmission of traditions, language, and values, and providing a space for healing, unity, and resilience; and

Whereas, organizations such as the Cambodian Association of North Carolina (CANC) have led efforts to promote civic engagement, youth leadership, educational advancement, and public service, ensuring that Cambodian Americans have equitable access to resources and opportunities throughout North Carolina; and

Whereas, the Cambodian Cultural Center of North Carolina, among others, has been instrumental in preserving and showcasing the rich artistic traditions of Cambodia—especially classical and folk dance—as vital expressions of Cambodian identity and history; and

Whereas, April holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Cambodian community as it marks both the celebration of Cambodian New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey)—a time of renewal, gratitude, and unity—and a solemn remembrance of those lost during the Khmer Rouge genocide; and

Whereas, through the efforts of the Cambodian Association of North Carolina, a Khmer-translated Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handbook has already been developed and made accessible to Cambodian residents, and North Carolina now has the opportunity to become the fourth state in the nation to provide this translation—an important step toward promoting public safety and making all our neighbors feel welcome; and

Whereas, the State of North Carolina affirms its commitment to recognizing the heritage and contributions of all its residents and stands in solidarity with the Cambodian American community in building a more inclusive, safe, and equitable future for all;

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim April 2025, as “Cambodian Heritage Month” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this fourteenth day of April in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-fifth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.