Honoring the Past, Building the Future: The National Cambodian Heritage Museum’s Mission in Chicago
The National Cambodian Heritage Museum & Killing Fields Memorial in Chicago, Illinois, stands as a unique institution dedicated to preserving Cambodian culture, educating the public about the Cambodian genocide, and providing a space for healing and remembrance. Established in 2004 under the Cambodian Association of Illinois (CAI), the museum became an independent 501(c)(3) organization in 2015. It serves as a tribute to the rich Cambodian heritage that spans over 4,000 years and provides a secure home for a culture nearly lost during the Vietnam War and Cambodia’s civil unrest.
The museum’s exhibitions feature vivid images, descriptive accounts, unique artifacts, and interactive media displays that celebrate Cambodian achievements and traditions. Its permanent exhibition, “Remembering the Killing Fields,” led Illinois to become the first state to formally adopt the Cambodian Day of Remembrance in 2012. The adjacent Killing Fields Memorial offers a serene space for visitors to honor the two million Cambodians who tragically died during the Cambodian genocide between 1975 and 1979.
Beyond exhibitions, the museum offers a range of programs, including cultural classes in traditional Cambodian dance and music, Khmer language classes, and academic services for youth. It also provides services to the aging Cambodian refugee population. The organization’s mission extends to promoting social justice, advocating for genocide survivors and their families, and fostering youth leadership development. The museum is located at 2831 West Lawrence Avenue.