“The mission is to celebrate Khmer culture through art, food, music, language and philanthropy,” Heang adds. “That can be done by honouring the survivors of the genocide who fled their homeland to give us an opportunity for a rebirth in Canada.”

Preserving culture

“Echoes of Angkor” refers to the capital of the Khmer Empire, now located in modern-day Cambodia. The historical city of Angkor resonates deeply with the Khmer people – an ethnic group that makes up the majority of Cambodia’s present-day population.

“To me, Angkor heritage represents an ancient civilization that has left its mark in history not only through temples, but through the resilience and strength of Khmer people,” says Heang, who is also the current president of the CCC. “Despite our history and culture almost being eradicated, the arts are being revived and a renaissance of Cambodian art, culture, music is being experienced today.”

He adds that Canada has been “a safe place” for Cambodians escaping from genocide since the 1980s. For Heang, the gala honours victims of the genocide – which killed an estimated two million Cambodians – while celebrating survivors and their children.

“The gala serves as a gentle reminder that despite past atrocities, a long history of foreign conquest and occupation by larger neighbours, Cambodian culture and history still endure,” he adds. “Khmer history is thousands of years old and has deep roots that remain in our hearts and souls today.”

The gala will feature classical Khmer dance, which Heang sees as “tributes to the past.” Guests can also enjoy Cambodian cuisine and a live concert from Khmer artists Jay Chan and Lay Leakhena.

Looking forward

Heang sees the gala as a way to honour new bonds linking Cambodia and Canada – and the vital role that the Khmer diaspora plays in strengthening both countries.

“As our Canadian roots have been established, Cambodian Canadians can contribute in meaningful ways to the Canadian mosaic,” he reflects. “Through cultural exchange, we can help build Canada’s internal strength as well as foster healthy relations with Cambodia.”

The CCC aims to strengthen its community not only through cultural preservation and revival, but also with education. They started offering Khmer language classes this September, and enrolment is already full.

The director sees this growth as “happening organically” according to the community’s interest. He hopes that their work will inspire younger generations of Cambodian Canadians to learn about their heritage.

“The future of the Cambodian Canadian community will ultimately be in their hands,” he shares. “They serve a unique role being 100 percent Canadian while also having a deep connection to their Cambodian heritage as well.”

Heang would like to see the CCC acquire a physical centre where they can celebrate Cambodian culture. He envisions this centre as offering classical dance programs, language classes and martial arts education in addition to holding cultural events.

“We want Canadians of all creeds and backgrounds to journey with us and know that they are loved and that we have space for them,” he shares. “Currently, the centre is in our hearts, and we would like to see that come to reality soon.”

The CCC’s slogan, “You Are Beautiful, Koun,” means “You Are Beautiful, Child.” For Heang, the phrase is a reminder of love – which reflects the “beauty of the Khmer spirit” despite hardships.

For more information, see www.cambodianculturalcentre.com/events/echoes-of-angkor-gala