Cambodian Community 4 Peace March

Although March 31, 2012 started off as a rainy day, it marked a truly historic day for the Oakland Cambodian community. In response to the increasing level of violence occurring within the Cambodian community, concerned citizens and local organizations organized and led a peacefully loud and unified march through the San Antonio neighborhood of East Oakland. Fortunately, the rains subsided just enough for the march to happen with out any incidents.

This event marked a milestone for the Cambodian community in numerous ways. First, this was a one of the first community actions that was organized and led by the Cambodian community, which has been one of the most underserved and marginalized groups in Oakland. Secondly, this was this was an inter generational event, in which Cambodian children, youth, adults and elders marched side by side. Most importantly, this event was very inclusive to all folks as a means to build solidarity between all the diverse communities in Oakland that affected by violence.

The wonderful day was capped off with powerful cultural ceremonial dances, spoken word poetry and music.

The Spot was fortunate enough to be invited to the Cambodian Community 4 Peace march and 15 of our youth were able to attend and make their voices heard.

Many thanks to the Cambodian community and the following community organizations for organizing this historic event in Oakland:

East Bay Asian Youth Center

Cambodian Community Development, INC

Community Health for Asian Americans

Center for Empowering Refugees and Immigrants

Asian Community Mental Health Services

Click here to see footage from the march!