via Khmer NZ News Media
Marcus Leshock on 06.17.10
The Killing Fields.
Three words haunt the southeast Asian nation of Cambodia. For a period between 1975-1979, it was hell on Earth.
Estimated say that somewhere around 2 million people were killed in the Khmer Rouge genocide. Countless more fled from the country at their own peril. They ended up displaced all over the globe.
Today, there are about 3,500 Cambodian Americans that call Chicago home. In 2004, the Cambodian Association of Illinois opened a museum at 2801 W. Lawrence Ave. in Albany Park.
This weekend they're opening their first retail store, featuring artifacts, musical instruments, artwork, sculptures, clothing and more - all created by Cambodians. Proceeds benefit the artists and the non-profit museum.
I spoke with a few of the artists today, each survived the terrible Cambodian tragedy of the late 70's. While the country will always be known for the hardship, they hope that museums like this one can remind people of the country's rich heritage (the store is named Morodok, which translates to "heritage.").
My full feature is running on the WGN News at 5 p.m. I'll post it here as soon as it is finished. The museum is holding a grand opening from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 19. They also offers free music lessons on the various Cambodian instruments. Contact them about times here...
Cambodian Association of Illinois
2801 W. Lawrence
Chicago IL
(773) 878-7090
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