GIVE
On a trip to Cambodia in September 2018, I was completely rocked to the core.
Despite the incredibly friendly and peaceful people of Cambodia today, I learned their very dark history of only a short 43 years ago. I learned of the violent takeover by the Khmer Rouge regime which led to a massive genocide of an estimated 1.7 million people and millions of landmines, planted largely by child soldiers, that still plague the country today.
There are landmine incidents every day in Cambodia as millions of mines are yet to be disarmed. A handful of brave organizations are working tirelessly to do this dangerous and necessary work but with millions of mines left in the ground, the work has just begun.
The reality of life in Cambodia is that everything can change in a single step. Imagine living with the fresh memories of war and post-traumatic-stress-disorder only to be taunted daily by landmines that disfigure thousands and kill hundreds each year. The incredibly resilient and talented people of Cambodia deserve the chance to move on from this brutal nightmare and achieve their dreams.
We don't believe that throwing money at a problem is always the solution, but for this particular issue, it is necessary. This is an effort that requires global attention because international dollars go so far in Cambodia.
Partnering with the Cambodia Landmine Museum, we provide monetary support and are in close connection with the founders of the museum to ensure that we can assist as other resources are needed too. Starting in 2020, 3% of ALL profits go toward this effort.
Every moment that Cambodia is occupied by the threat of landmines is another moment that the world is missing out on their talents. I encourage you to learn more about the Cambodian Genocide and join us to take action.
Learning:
Aki Ra's Story - The Founder of the Cambodia Landmine Museum
A documentary about Aki Ra's work and how landmines have impacted the country