In summer 2022,  Khmer Community of Seattle King County collaborated with Global Wisdom Collective to preserve the sacred knowledge of Khmer elders through an intergenerational program called “Chamkar Khmer Mitapeap” (cham-KAH kh-MAI mi-tuh-PEE-up) which translates into “Khmer Friendship Garden.” The Khmer Friendship Garden started this spring at the High Point Juneau Market Garden & P-Patch in West Seattle.

During this project, youth participants were trained in conducting respectful dialogues and recording stories, which were captured by video and audio, primarily in the Khmer language with the assistance of language interpreters. Elders shared valuable insights on Indigenous agricultural practices and personal experiences of change, grief, and resilience as they adapted to life in the United States.

Khmer elders, all of whom are refugees, have been stewarding this garden for the last twenty years and were excited to see Khmer youth in the garden with them and pass on their wisdom.