Students prepare for an evening of Cambodian culture

By Ashley Lowe

With the Cambodian New Year approaching, Fresno State’s Cambodian Collegiate Association (CCA) plans to have one of the largest celebrations in the central valley.

From cultural dances to live singing, the night promises to be culturally enriching, said CCA President Chan Dos.

“ We hope to expose our culture to the community and make people aware of who we are,” Dos said. “We have been planning the event since the beginning of the year, along with other events.”

Those that attend the event will get a taste of Cambodian dance and music, as well as a unique fashion show. Cambodian clothes from different time periods will be modeled, including some dating back to the 1300s.

“ One member of our organization is actually creating Cambodian clothes that are more up to date and in style,” Dos said.

The CCA includes students from Fresno State, Fresno City College and some high school students. Membership in the organization is open to anyone that is a student.

All members of the CCA have devoted time and energy to planning the event and perfecting the dances and skits they will perform

“ The majority of the dances will be from students involved in the organization,” Dos said. “There are a few performers from the community.”

Admission to the event is free and open to the public. In order for the event to be offered for free, the CCA had to fund the entire event.

“ It is all out of our own pocket,” Dos said. “The rest is the money we get from the Associated Students, but most of it is from us.”

While the event will be a cultural learning experience for all that attend, Dos said he hopes people will get something else out of it.

“ I hope people enjoy the event because we are putting on the event hoping it will be entertaining.”

The event will be held in the Satellite Student Union from 7 to 10 p.m. on Saturday.