CONTACT PERSON:
MELANIE CHHUAN (EN)
+1.410.343.9341
PHATRY DEREK PAN (EN/KH)
+855.96.9944790
hello@khmerica.co
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LONG BEACH, CA AND LOWELL, MA, January 11, 2024 – Today, nearly 350,000 Cambodians reside in the United States, with less than half arriving as refugees between 1975 and 1994 to escape the Khmer Rouge. Since then, Cambodian Americans have enriched communities nationwide, making profound contributions economically, politically, and culturally. In observance of the upcoming 50th anniversary in 2025 of Cambodian migration to America, Khmerica has been established to support Cambodian American individuals, scholars, and community leaders seeking connections, resources, and mentorship within the Khmer American community. The web portal, khmerica.co, will go live on January 11th at 11:11 AM EST.
Khmerica envisions a future where Cambodian Americans are empowered to preserve their cultural legacy while advancing in academic and professional spheres within a connected and vibrant community. The organization offers a series of online databases, designed to encourage collaboration among individuals and organizations. Additionally, the website will feature a community-curated “Discover” tab to highlight notable people, organizations, milestones, and other significant contributions within the diaspora.
“Khmerica is the next pivotal step for the progress of Khmer America,” said Phatry Derek Pan, Co-Founder and media entrepreneur, known for his previous work with Khmerican and KhmerConnection.
“For me, Khmerica is something I wish I had while growing up as a first-generation Cambodian American,” added Melanie Chhuan, fellow Co-Founder, serial entrepreneur, and MIT graduate. “It’s not only a resource for connection but a source of empowerment for people like me to embrace our Khmer identity with pride.”
As Khmerica grows, the organization aims to expand its offerings to include additional resources and features. “We want this website to be the primary gateway to all things Khmer America, serving as a hub for education and inspiration,” Pan added. “Khmerica’s is a living library.”
To explore the Khmerica’s archive, visit khmerica.co and join in celebrating the rich stories, achievements, and legacy of Khmer America.
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