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Chanrithy Him
Child Survivor, International Speaker, Social Justice Activist, Author & Khmer Classical Dancer.
Winner of the Oregon Book Award
Finalist for the Kiriyama Pacific Rim Book Prize
Finalist for the Pen USA West Literary Award
Welcome to my website!
As a passionate storyteller and international speaker, I delight in engaging with my audiences. My approach blends insightful narratives with a touch of good-natured humor, particularly during interactive Q&A sessions.
I'm thrilled to have you here and look forward to sharing my experiences and stories with you.
SELECTED ANECDOTES WITH PRAISE & APPRECIATION LETTERS FROM HOSTS, READERS & AUDIENCES
In the closing months of 2022, my journey took unexpected, yet meaningful turns. It began in November when I revisited plans to travel to Sammamish, Washington, at the urging of my college friend Trevor. This trip, which I undertook with my brother Phal, included a heartwarming Family Home Evening hosted by Pam’s family. There, surrounded by lovely people including our great nephew Arius, I felt a profound sense of belonging.
Back in Portland, Oregon, Trevor's gesture of sharing a photo of my book with our new acquaintances deepened the connections made on this trip. However, November 25, 2022 presented a harsh contrast with a severe car accident. In its wake, Pam's comforting emails and an inspiring message from Isabela, a 14-year-old reader, on December 15, offered solace. Their words were a testament to the power of human connection and kindness in times of adversity.
These experiences, from heartening visits to overcoming challenges, have underscored the importance of support and empathy in life's journey.
Here are some excerpts from Pam's emails and an email from Isabela:
Chanrithy, Oh my...I'm SO glad you came! You enriched the lives of all of us. Thank you for coming!... Chanrithy, I wanted you to know that I finished your book...and I started the very next day to read it a second time! What an amazing story! I know that you had to pour out your heart to write this, and I know that it was very difficult for you. But it helped me, and I'm sure everyone who reads it, to understand on so much more of a personal level what you and your family and countrymen went through. What a sad cruel world this can be when sad cruel people get into power. You and your brother have more than earned your crowns in heaven, Chanrithy. You are a remarkable person.... Dear Chanrithy, I have absolutely NO idea why, in God's plan, you had to go through all of this. But I truly believe that God was (and is) always aware of you; and that you, in particular, needed to survive for a purpose on this earth. And I believe you are well fulfilling that purpose. What a reunion it will be when you are with your family again. I'm sure they weep for you, on their side of the veil. They no longer have to live by faith that everything you all endured had a reason. I'm sure they are anxious to be able to fully share that peace and knowledge with you. You all are destined for massive blessings throughout eternity, I have no doubt!!! Thank you for sharing this with me, Chanrithy! I hope that you will have a happy and peaceful Christmas. Sincerely, Pam K. H.
Hello Ms. Chanrithy! My name is Isabela, I'm 14 years old and oldest of 7 children. I have just finished reading your book, "When Broken Glass Floats." It was such an inspiration to me, and I'm so thankful that you shared your story with the world. Thank you so much for doing so. I wish I would have heard of it sooner, though! I am deeply sorry for all you have been through, growing up, for seeing so much death as a child, for always being hungry and for the loss of many members of your family. I can't imagine how miserable it was! As I was reading your story, I thanked Jesus Christ for taking care of me and my family, and that we don't starve, like many other people in the world do. Your story made me appreciate having food and appreciate my life. Thank you, Ms. Chanrithy! I have been inspired by your story, and now I appreciate many things in life that I haven't before. It's been a blessing for me to read this book. Thank you, once again, for sharing your story and I'm sorry for all you have been through growing up. I would absolutely love to hear back from you.. it would be an honor. Have a Merry Christmas and an amazing, Happy New Year!! Yours Truly, Isabela K. G. (P.S. My family has just moved to Knoxville, Tennessee from Washington state, and an interesting fact is that we were about to move to Eugene, Oregon (where you live!) but my dad got a job here in TN, so we ended up moving out here, which was a huge blessing to our family, and we have made amazing friends here!)
Isabela K.G., 14 years old
On March 3, 2020, I had the privilege of speaking to students from Yokosuka Middle School, the Department of Defense School in Japan. The other schools included Lakenheath High School in England, Circle Middle School in the U.S., Concordia Hanoi in Vietnam, and College Jacque Monod in France, connecting via Google Meets.
Since then, every year I have the opportunity to address a similar group of 8th graders from these diverse schools again. These sessions are particularly engaging as the students are studying my internationally acclaimed, award-winning memoir, When Broken Glass Floats: Growing Up Under the Khmer Rouge for their Global Connections Unit.
Andrea Greer (in flowered blouse) 8th grade Teacher & Organizer of this global video conference. She generously uses her own money to pay for speaker fees every year.
Lansana, good question! I just need to win a huge lottery jackpot, so I can produce the movie myself. Read More about the Script Here...
Isabella Pabon saw my dance performance at the Federation Square.
----- Original Message ----- From: Hall, Veronica
To: authorchanrithyhim@gmail.com
Sent: Sunday, November 23, 2014 5:48 PM
Subject: When Broken Glass Floats
Ms. Him,
I'm not quite sure if this is the proper place to send this message to, but I genuinely hope that this gets to you personally.
In my college World History class, we were asked to compare and contrast your memoir and Night by Elie Wisel. The assignment was to compare and contrast Hitler's facism with the Khmer Rouge's Communism.
To start, I just wanted to say how inspirational you are to me. Your love for your Mak and Pa is something that I could feel so immensely through your writing. When you wrote about the death of your parents, I cried along with you. I was so touched by your story, and I am in so much awe at how strong you were as such a young girl.
I am 19 years old, and I would never have been as strong as you during the Khmer Rouge takeover.
When you wrote about crossing the swelling river for food in Zone 3, I was literally so anxious and nervous for you. I read your memoir in 3 days - I felt glued to your story.
I am a psychology major at the University of North Florida, and I read that you work with Cambodians with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. One day, I hope to work with people with anxiety disorders in my own practice.
Your story and your current life are so inspirational to me, you are such a strong woman and my hero.
I never thought that a book I was required to read for a course would inspire me and touch my heart so deeply. When I read the last words of your memoir I cried. You are a legend and a superhero.
I hope that you get to read this. I could never imagine surviving what you did with such grace; or telling a story with such honesty.
I have so much more to say to you about your memoir and your life, but I will leave it at that. Thank you Chanrithy for being my hero and being an inspiration to women and to people as a whole,
Sincerely,
Veronica Hall
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Capturing a poignant moment as I express, with expressive hand gestures, the harrowing memory of witnessing the US bombing of Cambodia at age four. A vivid reminder of the enduring impact of war trauma.
Chanrithy Him with Alqawi Majidah at the July 29, 2010 Bodies Without Names Humanizing Genocide Lecture
THE CAMBODIAN GENOCIDE: THROUGH THE EYES OF A CHILD.
In April 2006, my journey with Washington State University began with an invigorating talk to a group of exceptionally driven undergraduates and graduates in Professor Roger Chan and Raymond Sun's Comparative Genocide class. This experience was not only educational but also profoundly inspiring, as highlighted by student Alqawi Majidah's insightful inquiry about my brother Phalkunarith, one of the most important characters in my book. Majidah's articulate and thoughtful engagement reflected the deep impact our interaction had, unbeknownst to me at the time.
This initial engagement set the stage for a series of transformative encounters. In 2010, I was honored to contribute to the lecture "Bodies without Names: Humanizing Genocide" at the Seattle Center. Sharing insights alongside Dr. Daniel Chirot and forensics expert Dr. William Haglund, I was deeply moved by Majidah's revelation that my 2006 presentation had inspired her to pivot her graduate focus to International Relations.
The bond with Washington State University continued to strengthen over the years. In April 2021, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I reconnected with Professor Sun's Comparative Genocide class via Zoom. This session marked a pivotal moment; I shared my experiences and perspectives more candidly than ever before. My intent was to leave a lasting impression on the students, urging them to strive for excellence and advocate for justice.
Following this heartfelt session, Professor Sun, whom I affectionately call Ray, commended my speaking prowess, acknowledging the evolution of my public speaking skills over the years.
Below are some thoughtful responses from Ray and his students, which underscore the profound connection and mutual growth fostered through these engagements:
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Dr. Raymond Sun, Chanrithy Him & Dr. Roger Chan at WSU in 2006
Chanrithy with Trevor Fisher, her ER doctor friend whose family hosted her & came to her talk in 2010.
Book signing after the lecture
Hi Chanrithy,
I was also thinking that in a sense you are acting as the embodiment of all the strong and courageous women who looked after you in your childhood, your mother and your older sisters (and also your beloved father!) in your mission as an adult to educate and protect today’s students by giving of yourself to share your story....
I was thinking a lot about your presentation. I think you were extraordinarily open with the class about your personal post-genocidal journey, and the students clearly recognized, and appreciated your willingness to share so honestly.
Attached are student responses that I received following your talk to my genocide class on April 27, 2021. I think their messages will make it clear how impactful your presentation was, and how much the students recognized and appreciated your honesty and clarity in sharing from the heart.
Thank you again, for giving of yourself to educate my students.
With respect and friendship, Ray
—Dr. Raymond Sun, History Professor & Director of the History Department at Washington State University.
Dear Chanrithy Him,
I would like to express my sincerest gratitude for your sharing with our class. It is hard for me to find words that can give my deepest thanks for what you have contributed to my understanding of your experiences. It is your continual bearing of such pain that demands the world never forgets your story and those who cannot speak up for themselves.
Your use of metaphor and language is so very beautiful and chosen with such grace. I have found in trying to share what I have learned in this course this semester with my family and peers that I cannot raise up my own voice or opinions to any kind of comparison to those who have lived it.
This course and your gifts to history have changed my path in life in a way that demands action and the continual pursuit of knowledge on the subject like no other class has before. I will never forget you. —Anne Gardner, Dr. Sun's Student, Class: Comparative Genocide 5/4/21
Ms. Him,
Thank you for taking the time to speak to our class last on April 27th. We all appreciate your vulnerability and sympathize with your traumatic experiences. I do not have any specific questions for you, but prior to reading your book, I knew very little about the Cambodian genocide. Most of my high school history class primarily discussed the Holocaust during World War II. It was my first year at community college when I first learned of the Rwandan genocide.
One thing I specifically remember from your presentation was a response to one of my peers regarding the appropriate words to use when speaking to survivors to avoid triggering or insulting them. I think it is important to remain mindful when having conversations about genocide because not everyone comes from the same privileged background.
Thank you again for speaking and your willingness to answer questions. I hope to hear from you again in another presentation.
Best, Ashlie Oxford —Dr. Sun's Student, Class: Comparative Genocide 5/4/21
Dear Ms. Him,
I just wanted to say how incredibly brave it was for you to come talk to us, sharing such a deeply personal and tragic story is inspiring, especially when it was with complete strangers. Each of us face our own tragedies and hardships but none like the ones you have seen at a young and impressionable age.
I have read Machete Season which is from the perpetrators perspective, hearing both sides of the story is important to fully understand everything that happened. Every victim's story is unique and relevant, yours is no different so thank you for sharing with us. Mary Schuetze
—Dr. Sun's Student, Class: Comparative Genocide 5/4/21
I feel honored that Chanrithy was able to come to class to present to us about her book and her experiences in the Cambodian genocide. Before I took this course, I had no idea about the Cambodian genocide and the Khmer Rouge.
Her presentation was insightful, and the Cambodian genocide was a very devastating event that nobody should go through. Her book was very powerful and moving. I enjoyed reading her book and how she showed her strength and courage to survive, even through the darkest moments like witnessing death, dealing with disease, and living in labor camps.
I can not imagine what it felt like to live under the Khmer Rouge as a young child and losing most of your family. She was very brave and showed us how fortunate we are. I feel honored that she came to our class and I thank her for telling us her stories.
—Paul Tamasan, Dr. Sun's Student, Class: Comparative Genocide 5/4/21
Dear Chanrithy,
I want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your bravery, vulnerability, and generosity in speaking with our class last month. I can only imagine the amount of strength one would have to muster to be so selfless over and over again. I want to let you know that your book and talk with our class moved me in a profound way. I have shared your book with my mom and intend to disseminate it to the rest of my family and friends.
I am sometimes referred to the "memory keeper" in my family, as things like traditions, family photo albums, and heirlooms have been placed in my care/protection. I know it is an immense privilege to possess and care for these things. I wanted to let you know that I intend to keep the memory of your story, and the story of those lost in the Cambodian genocide, in my household and in my heart. I am going to frame your poem, Please Give Us Voice, and keep it on my desk as a constant reminder to remember and honor the survivors and victims of the genocide. Thank you again for sharing your continued story.
Sincerely, Amanda Fleming —Dr. Sun's Student, Class: Comparative Genocide 5/4/21
Dear Chanrithy,
I really wanted to thank you for coming to speak to our class about your book and I wanted to specifically thank you for the vulnerability that you shared regarding your experience, especially with your mental health. I am a history major who chooses to focus on social histories, so I specifically like to understand the way that different historical events affect people and the way that people lived and interacted with each other at the time. Your personal account in your book and even more so in the talk that you gave to our class helps me understand the way that individual people were affected by the Khmer Rouge’s attacks. I just really appreciate getting to hear your story from you personally and about how it still affects you even after that period in your life is over.
A specific part of your talk that stuck out to was how you addressed your mental health and how you dealt with it as a young adult which I think a lot our class, as college students, could see themselves in. Obviously, we did not face the same things that you did, and we hope that we never will, but in understanding what happened, it can really help to see this side of history. I also really appreciate how personable you were with our class because I feel like most students do not get that with the authors of the books that we read in all of our other classes.
Thanks again because I know everyone in our class really appreciated how you took time out of your schedule to speak with us, especially about something so personal.
—Mystique Demyers, Dr. Sun's Student, Class: Comparative Genocide 5/4/21
Chanrithy,
I just want to take this space to express my gratitude for your incredible ability to be vulnerable and open about your experiences.
I hope that you continue to find ways to help yourself heal, and I hope you know you’re doing an incredible honor to your family and Cambodia to continue telling these stories.
You have added undeniable value to my education and I’m so appreciative that you’ve been able to continue raising awareness despite the enormous personal and emotional costs.
I am also a spiritual person so I hope that you are able to feel my sincere prayers for peace and healing to you and your family.
Thank you again. Taliah Merkuria —Dr. Sun's Student, Class: Comparative Genocide 5/4/21
Hello ma’am,
First, I would like to thank you very much for coming to speak with our class. Learning from those who have been through these terrible events is something that I believe should be required in school. Your class was very personal and helped me better understand the repercussions that genocide has on a survivor.
While I certainly do not think it is necessary to forgive or even possible to forgive those who committed such acts, I would like to ask what you believe was your first step that you took in healing from these experiences? I know that no one can truly heal but I would like to know where it starts.
V/r,
John-Morgan Smithline —Dr. Sun's Student, Class: Comparative Genocide 5/4/21
In response to John-Morgan Smithline's query, I plan to launch of my YouTube channel, 'THE HEALING PROCESS with Chanrithy Him.' This platform will delve into my personal journey of healing and self-help strategies. Stay tuned for more updates.
Chanrithy Him at Nardin Acadamy High School
Over 200 juniors and seniors were captivated by Chanrithy's talk and tales of culture shock at Cleveland High School in Portland, Oregon, where she began her new journey at 16.
During my visits to the University at Buffalo, a renowned educational institution in America, I had the privilege of not only performing the Cambodian classical dance 'The Blessing Dance' but also sharing insights from my book When Broken Glass Floats with a diverse audience from UB and Nardin Academy High School. These visits, facilitated by Dr. Mark Ashwill, stand out in my memory for their profound impact and the deep connections forged.
Mark, who has become a dear friend, showed exceptional empathy towards the experiences of Cambodians during the tumultuous Khmer Rouge era. His efforts in rallying a significant audience for my talks and discussions created a unique and special atmosphere. His belief in my message led to an expansive network of speaking opportunities along the East Coast, for which I am immensely grateful.
A testament to the influence of these talks is the story of Adam Croglia. First encountering my message as a 7th grader, Adam's path intersected with mine again years later when, as the Vice President of Student Government at Hobart William Smith, he organized my keynote speech during Peace Fest in 2008. It's moments like these—seeing the impact of my words on individuals like Adam—that underscore the importance of my mission to share and educate about the past for the betterment of our collective future.
"After your departure, I thought about the many people here who you educated, touched and inspired. Chanrithy, with every lecture you give, every person you meet and every interview you grant, you honor the memory of your deceased family members and everyone else who perished during the Khmer Rouge era. I greatly admire your courage and commitment. —Dr. Mark A. Ashwill, Director & Fulbright Adviser, SUNY at Buffalo 10/23/00
Linda Croglia, Chanrithy Him and Adam Croglia at the Hobart Peace Fest in 2008.
Adam, his friend, Linda and Chanrithy had a lovely dinner after the Peace Fest in 2008.
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Mr. Tommy Lord introduced Chanrithy Him
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Chanrithy during a booksigning. To her left: her young brother Phalkunarith Him, a graduate student from Brigham Young University.
In the spring of 2004, I received a heartfelt invitation from Tommy Lord to present at the 56th Annual NAFSA Conference in Baltimore. This opportunity arose from a poignant experience Mr. Lord had in Cambodia, where he purchased my book, When Broken Glass Floats: Growing Up Under the Khmer Rouge. Deeply touched, he shared, 'I've read many books before, none made me cry but yours...' This emotional connection led Mr. Lord to establish The Distinguished Authors Session, with me as its first featured speaker, an honor that underscored the power of storytelling and empathy.
"Cambodian author Chanrithy Him discussed her experiences of growing up as a young girl in Cambodia when the Khmer Rouge was in power. Her book, When Broken Glass Floats, documents not just the horrors of that period, but also the courage, compassion, and hope that survived in so many. Conference attendees called it unique for NAFSA, helpful to intimately understand other cultures and very important in thinking about conflict and conflict resolution." —NAFSA - the 56th Annual NAFSA Conference 5/27/04
"Wonderful session for NAFSA. First-person point of view is very important. Everyone was very appreciative and thankful for this session and requested another one next year!" —56th Annual NAFSA Conference attendees
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Chanrithy Him donned in partial Khmer classical dance costume.
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Chanrithy was with Mr. Lord's father and cousins at the 57th NAFSA Annual Conference in Seattle (2005)
Professor Ben Kiernan, Yale University
Dr. Craig Etcheson, Chief of investigations for the Office of Co-Prosecutors at the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia, urged Chanrithy to ask Dr. Albright to support H. Con. Res. 399. To see if she had impact.
As NAFSA's motto says, "Connect People. Changing the World". During the 56th NAFSA Annual Conference, an event embodying the spirit of “Connect People. Changing the World,” I had the honor of speaking at the same prestigious international platform as former US Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright. This event was not only a platform for global connections but also a moment for confronting significant issues. I addressed Dr. Albright about H. Con. Res. 399 and the US government's role in Cambodia's turmoil, a conversation that has since been dramatized in my screenplay WHEN BROKEN GLASS FLOATS, aiming to enlighten global citizens about the impacts of leadership decisions and actions.
BACKGROUND STORY:
The lead-up to the conference was marked by a significant correspondence with Professor Ben Kiernan from Yale University. He reached out to me with a critical request: to co-write a letter addressing Rep. Henry J. Hyde regarding the delay in passing H. Con. Res. 399.
Professor Kiernan expressed his concerns, stating, "Henry Hyde is bottling it up in the House International Relations Committee, preventing the resolution from reaching the House floor for a vote..."
My impassioned response to Rep. Hyde's actions, particularly given his status as “the greatest hero of the pro-life movement in America”, was one of deep indignation. This fervor fueled my preparations for the conference, where I was determined to voice my perspective. For a more detailed insight into my thoughts and stance during this period, I invite you to read my letter to Rep. Hyde, available on the Yale University Genocide Studies Program page.
Rep. Henry J. Hyde, photo: REUTERS / Alamy
Inspiring a Generation: Chanrithy's Impactful Visit to Canada
In October 2003, I had the privilege of speaking at St. Mary's Secondary School, various Rotary Clubs, and other public schools in Ontario, Canada. The warmth and receptivity of the students, teachers, and my host, Mr. Gary O'Dwyer, made my experience unforgettable.
Mr. Gary O'Dwyer, Chanrithy Him's adopted Irish uncle. :--)
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It was so lovely to have the 2003 Thanksgiving dinner with Uncle Gary's family: His wife Pauline and daughters.
Chanrithy with "Uncle Gary" and his fellow teachers.
Chanrithy was with the chef team who cooked delicious lunch for everyone. They wanted to cook frogs for Chanrithy, but couldn't handle the frogs. Aw! :-)
“Dear Chanrithy,
Well, Ty, it's hard to believe that your amazing week at St. Mary's and in our community was just last week! A simple 'thank you' seems insufficient for the profound impact you've had on our students. Your presence was a blessing to them…” —Gary O’Dwyer
Chanrithy was deeply moved by two students who, before her departure back to America, presented her with heartfelt letters expressing their thoughts and gratitude:
"Mein (Aunt) Thy, you came to speak to us about horrors that are difficult for us to fully comprehend. What you lived through is frankly wrong. I'm sorry for being blunt and frank. I, we, learned about all of these things, and yet when I was walking home from school on Tuesday, what I felt was joy. Happiness and playfulness. Along the paths of life we often need reinforcement in our beliefs and joy of being alive. You who have every right to be bitter and negative, showed unlimited love, hope, and forgiveness. I can never thank you enough for sharing that with us...."
—Christine M. Cleary, Student - St. Mary's Secondary School, Canada
"Dear Athy,
I am attempting to write a letter of thanks for coming to speak at our school on Tuesday, only I don't know where to begin. I read When Broken Glass Floats. I was touched and horrified by the memories that are a reality to you.
When you came to speak, I expected to hear more of the horrific genocide. I prepared myself to hear things that were difficult to hear. I expected to feel helpless. I was, however, met by a woman with incredible spirit and care. I was deeply touched by your ability to recount life threatening experiences. However, what touched me more was the spirit with which you used to tell these stories. Because of your spirit, I now feel hopeful about many worldly issues, such as genocides. Issues that before I felt helpless about.
I recently had to write a comprehension test on your book. An essay question on the test was "which part of the book touched you the most?" The part that touched me the most is the part of your friend Cheng taking care of you. I was touched by Cheng's love, a love which you also possess. I wrote that I hoped one day to be able to give this kind of love to others.
When I read about such love, I allow the emotions in my body to take over my whole being. I savor the moment because I know that it is only in this love that the world is able to operate. I have a deep respect for you, and for the way which you treat others with love.
You share this love with everyone around you. You have taught me a life lesson, that the essence of life is love and forgiveness (and of course humor and partying). Thank you for being so open. You have touched many people.
Thank you!" —Robyn V. V., Student, St. Mary's Secondary School, Canada
Toronto International Airport. Emotionally exhausted after her talks, I was ready to come home, wearing a gift from one of the teachers to remember my memorable visit to Canada.
Mr. Gary O’Dwyer kindly coordinated this visit to the Rotary Club in Cobourg. From Left to Right: Mr. Harry Cortesis, President of the Rotary Club; myself; and Ms. Jennifer Thompson, President of the Rotary Club.
It was a pleasure to have Dr. Mark A. Ashwill join us from Buffalo, New York while I spoke to students from St. Mary's Secondary School and other public schools, as well as to the Rotary Clubs in Cobourg.
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"...Combining her graciousness and her talent as a performer of traditional Cambodian dance with her articulate and passionate description of her family's (and her nation's) devastation at the hands of the Khmer Rouge, she held her audiences captive during her three-day visit [at] Mississippi State University, where I was then serving as Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences. None of us was the same after meeting and speaking with her. I was so impressed that, a year later, having accepted the position of Vice President of Academic Affairs at St. Bonaventure University in Olean, NY, one of my first orders of business was to bring Chanrithy to my new campus home in upstate New York. Once again, she left the campus a different place than she found it. So far, her visit remains one of the highlights of my tenure here. [Ms. Him] has formidable intelligence, sparkling personality, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor…." —Dr. Frank E. Saal, St. Bonaventure University & Mississipi State University
Dr. Stephen Cottrell
Chanrithy's Distinguished Encounter at MSU: Honored Amongst Leaders and Faculty at a Prestigious Reception with Dr. Donald W. Zacharias and Directors from Varied Departments.
Amplifying the Voiceless - An Inspirational Encounter at MSU
Dr. Stephen Cottrell orchestrated a triumphant three-day event featuring Chanrithy Him. Her captivating lectures and dance performances enthralled audiences across various venues. Esteemed attendees included Dr. Donald W. Zacharias, MSU's President, and the public, marking a remarkable convergence of culture and academia.
In the hallowed halls of Mississippi State University's Simrall Hall, in the sea of faces, a woman's hand, trembling slightly, brushed away a tear, her eyes a mirror of the heartache and resilience in Chanrithy's tale. Amidst this solemnity, a student's question pierced the air, laced with innocent curiosity: "How did you get to America?"
Chanrithy's response, unexpected and light-hearted, "Scotty beamed me up," sparked a wave of laughter, breaking the emotional tension like a sudden ray of sunshine through storm clouds. (April 2001)
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Voices Touched by Chanrithy: Heartfelt Responses to one of the Inspiring Talks at MSU
"Some of the highlights of the talk were how her life went from such a normal everyday routine to a battle for survival . . . I was most impressed with how similar her life was to that of most Americans before the trouble started in Cambodia. The stories that she told of playing hide-and-go-seek with her sister and watching television were not at all what I expected from a person who had lived through the fighting and hardships that she has. It really makes you think about the reality that sort of thing could happen to the citizens of the United States. Americans have never been exposed to this kind of reality and we have a false sense of exclusion from war because in many of our lives we have not had this type of fighting on our home soil. We have a feeling that we are "untouchable" and I pray that we are never faced with hardships of this caliber because I think that we would not be prepared to handle them."
Mississippi State University Student #1
"After hearing Chanrithy Him, I had the most overwhelming feeling of pride and thankfulness that I live in a free nation. So often I take for granted that I am governed by a system in which something like the happenings in Cambodia would virtually impossible. It made me realize how fortunate I am to simply be able to talk to any of my immediate family whenever I want to...."
Mississippi State University Student #2
"I was impressed by several parts of the talk. The author had a lot of spunk and strength in her personality, which is remarkable considering the horror she has been through and was speaking about . . . The Cambodian dance costume worn by Ms. Him was also striking because of its beautiful designs and color. Overall, I found the lecture very interesting. I will remember the admirable author for a long time."
Mississippi State University Student #3
"As I listened to Him, I thought about all the children who didn't escape. And, I wondered how people get to the point where they can be so cruel to another human being. How can a person ignore the pain and suffering of another? Him also reminded me that no matter how rough you think your life has been, you can always look around to see someone else whose life has been rougher. I was most impressed with Him's unbroken spirit and her willingness to relive the past in an effort to educate others . . . Ms. Mylroie, thanks for this extra credit opportunity- and NOT for the extra credit! I plan to order Him's book. As a social studies teacher, it will be an asset."
Mississippi State University Student #4
"I truly enjoyed Ms. Him's presentation. She is a good speaker, and I was impressed at how well she was able to stand in front of people and talk about such a traumatic event in her life. I thought she had a nice sense of humor . . . Until I heard her story, I was unaware of any such events that took place in Cambodia. It was very interesting and I want to learn more about it."
Mississippi State University Student #5
"The lecture was very informative and taught me a lot of things that I did not know. It impressed me the way that she presented herself and seemed very normal. I can't imagine how I would be or feel if I had to go through that. Her strength and poise was most impressive and to be respected."
Mississippi State University Student #6
"Chanrithy's braveness is what impressed me most about this talk. I was amazed once I realized how much she went through just to stay alive. Her courage is incredible. Many people would have given up, but she didn't. Her story is one that I will always remember and I am glad that I got a chance to listen to her speak. This lecture really inspired me."
Mississippi State University Student #7