Expressing support for the designation of April 17, 2025, as "Cambodian Genocide Remembrance Day" to remember the horrific slaughter of almost 2,000,000 Cambodian people at the hand of the Khmer Rouge regime.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 338
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- International Affairs
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-04-17: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- Last Updated
- 2025-07-03T15:42:46Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This House Resolution (H. Res. 338) expresses support for designating April 17, 2025, as "Cambodian Genocide Remembrance Day." It aims to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the start of the Cambodian Genocide, which began when the Khmer Rouge (a communist regime led by Pol Pot) captured Phnom Penh on April 17, 1975, leading to the deaths of nearly 2 million Cambodians—about one-fourth of the population—through starvation, torture, and murder over the next four years.
Key Provisions
- Background Clauses ("Whereas"): These provide historical context, noting the genocide's start date, its scale and brutality, the 50th anniversary in 2025, the need for respect for victims and admiration for survivors, the resilience of Cambodian communities in the U.S., and prior recognitions by cities (Lowell, Los Angeles, Long Beach in 2019) and Massachusetts (2023).
- Resolved Actions:
- Supports the principles of "Cambodian Genocide Remembrance Day."
- Acknowledges the Cambodian people's ongoing efforts to build a free and democratic society.
- Recognizes the advocacy of Cambodian diaspora communities in the U.S. for federal acknowledgment of the genocide.
- Encourages reflection on the genocide's history and its lasting impact in Cambodia and globally.
- Requests that the President issue a proclamation urging Americans to observe the day with ceremonies and activities.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or statutes. It serves as a symbolic statement of congressional intent rather than enforceable legislation.
Potential Impacts
- On Citizens: Raises public awareness of the Cambodian Genocide, fostering education and remembrance among Americans, particularly in Cambodian-American communities. It may encourage community events, school programs, or personal reflections to honor victims and survivors.
- On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact, but it could prompt the White House to issue a proclamation, leading to optional federal observances. It highlights the role of the U.S. House of Representatives in recognizing international human rights issues.
- On International Relations: Strengthens U.S. solidarity with Cambodia and its diaspora by condemning historical atrocities, potentially supporting ongoing efforts for justice (e.g., through international tribunals). It may enhance cultural ties without affecting foreign policy directly.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Cambodian Diaspora in the U.S.: Communities in states like Massachusetts and California, who have advocated for this recognition and represent symbols of resilience.
- Victims' Families and Survivors: Honored through remembrance, providing a platform for their stories and healing.
- U.S. Government: The House of Representatives (via referral to the Foreign Affairs Committee), the President (for potential proclamation), and broader federal entities focused on human rights and immigration.
- Cambodian People and Government: Indirectly benefits by acknowledging their historical struggle for democracy and justice.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: None, as resolutions like this are not legally binding and do not create new rights, obligations, or penalties.
- Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's power to express views on foreign affairs under Article I, without infringing on executive authority (e.g., the request for a presidential proclamation is advisory).
- Political: Promotes bipartisan support for human rights remembrance (introduced by Rep. Trahan and Rep. Garcia), potentially influencing future resolutions on genocides. It underscores the U.S. role in global historical accountability, which could build goodwill with immigrant communities but has no partisan enforcement.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (1)
Recent Actions
- 2025-04-17: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- 2025-04-17: Submitted in House
- 2025-04-17: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Expressing support for the designation of April 17, 2025, as "Cambodian Genocide Remembrance Day" to remember the horrific slaughter of almost 2,000,000 Cambodian people at the hand of the Khmer Rouge regime. — issued 2025-04-17 — PDF (3 pages)