Dr. Christine Su - Prof of South East Asian Studies & Author of "Voices of a New Generation"

In this episode we chat with Dr. Christine Su about her powerful journey of self-discovery and cultural reconnection as a Cambodian American. Growing up in New Jersey, Christine’s Cambodian heritage was largely suppressed, but through education and transformative experiences—including her time in Hawaii and her return to Cambodia—she found a deeper connection to her roots.

Christine shares how her academic work in Southeast Asian studies, her career in education, and her advocacy for Cambodian representation in American curricula have shaped her mission.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, identity, and the importance of preserving Cambodian heritage for future generations.

Takeaways:

• Christine's journey reflects the struggle of many Cambodian Americans in reconnecting with their heritage.
• Her father's trauma influenced her upbringing and understanding of Cambodian culture.
• Education played a crucial role in Christine's exploration of her identity.
• The importance of community support in embracing one's cultural background.
• Christine's experiences in Hawaii were pivotal in her cultural awakening.
• The significance of learning the Khmer language for personal connection.
• Christine's work aims to create a Cambodian American model curriculum for schools.
• The need for representation and understanding of Cambodian history in American education.
• Christine's vision includes fostering pride in Cambodian identity among youth.
• The Reconnecting Cambodia project aims to build a DNA database to help individuals find their roots.