The Khmer New Year Parade in Long Beach, California, celebrates Cambodian culture and community, coinciding this year with the 50th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge's reign of terror. Thousands of Cambodian Americans gathered for the 17th annual parade, emphasizing resilience and healing from past tragedies. Founded in 2005 to bring awareness and resources to the Cambodian community, the event showcases the vibrant culture and culinary uniqueness of Cambodians, with local businesses thriving through their participation. Currently, 4% of Long Beach's population, or about 20,000 residents, identify as Khmer, representing the largest diaspora outside of Southeast Asia.
The Khmer New Year is celebrated over three days in mid-April, marking the end of the harvesting season in Southeast Asia.
Today, 4% or about 20,000 Long Beach residents identify as Khmer, the highest concentration of Cambodians outside of Southeast Asia.
Sithea San emphasized that the parade symbolizes community strength and resilience, highlighting the survival of Cambodians who fled genocide.
The parade began in 2005 with goals of healing genocide survivors and boosting local businesses along the Anaheim corridor.
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