[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 4]
[Senate]
[Page 5903]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



            CELEBRATION OF CHAUL CHHNAM, CAMBODIAN NEW YEAR

 Mr. REED. Mr. President, I rise today to join Cambodian-
Americans in celebration of the traditional Cambodian New Year, Chaul 
Chhnam, one of the major celebrations of the Cambodian culture. For 
three days this month, there will be gatherings across the United 
States to celebrate the beginning of the year. I take this opportunity 
to wish all Cambodian Americans a very happy New Year.
  New Year celebrations are about the passing of time and the 
rejuvenation of optimism for the future. The Cambodian New Year is this 
and more. It represents a traditional end of the harvest and a 
celebration of faith. Traditionally, it was a time for farmers to enjoy 
the fruits of their harvest and relax before the rainy season began. 
The start of the New Year is marked by the sounding of a bell. With the 
sounding, it is believed that the New Angel arrives. Throughout the day 
people participate in ceremonies and bring food to the Buddhist monks 
and religious leaders. The second day of celebration, or Vana Bat, is a 
time to show consideration for others. Gifts are given to parents, 
grandparents and teachers as a show of respect and charity is offered 
to the less fortunate. The third day, or Loeng Sak, includes more 
religious ceremonies and rituals to bring good luck and happiness to 
families.
  In my home state of Rhode Island there are numerous businesses owned 
by Cambodian-American families, most of them in the capital city 
Providence. These families enrich Rhode Island with their diversity and 
culture, and their hard work contributes much to the local economy. I 
would like to wish each one of them a happy New Year.
  The Cambodian New Year is an appropriate time to remind all Americans 
why we must support the political and economic stabilization of 
Cambodia. As Cambodia continues to recover from three decades of civil 
conflict, including the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge, it is 
critical that the United States and international community aid the 
Cambodian people in their efforts to build a lasting democracy.
  As we approach the beginning of Chaul Chhnam, I encourage all U.S. 
citizens to join in the spirit of this special holiday.

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