In Episode 2 of Healing Out Lao’d, Rita unpacks Thailand’s role in the ongoing conflict with Cambodia through the lens of nationalism, colonial legacy, and cultural appropriation. With Lao and Thai Isaan roots, Rita reflects on how this war hits close to home — especially after her cousin had to evacuate due to a bomb hitting her city in Thailand. This episode further explores the history of the Preah Vihear Temple dispute, how borders drawn by colonial powers continue to drive tension, and how Thai nationalism and militarization are erasing Khmer and Lao cultural heritage in the name of sovereignty and control. This episode centers the emotional toll on Southeast Asian communities navigating both proximity to power and generational trauma from displacement.
On July 28th, 2025, a ceasefire was brokered by ASEAN and Malaysia, though reports show that fighting still occurred after the deadline. With over 38 civilians killed and more than 300,000 displaced in under a week, this update episode offers space to grieve and reflect on how everyday people bear the cost of state violence. We discuss the fragile/skeptical nature of the peace deal, and how cultural sites like Preah Vihear continue to be weaponized. As always, this podcast holds space for truth-telling, rooted care, and collective reflection in the face of ongoing harm.
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SOURCES:
- Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1907 (Wikipedia) – background on how colonial powers redrew borders
- Reuters – Q&A on Preah Vihear and tensions
- https://www.icj-cij.org/case/45
- AP News – Preah Vihear cultural disputes
- Reuters – Ceasefire agreement – initial reporting on July 28 peace deal
- TIME – Overview of ceasefire
- Reuters – Ceasefire breach report
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HOL is a podcast and virtual practice space exploring Lao diaspora storytelling, healing, and tools for sustainability. Learn more at www.healingoutlaod.org
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Music: Andrew David Vilaythong
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