The California State Senate convened on April 24, 2025, to discuss significant resolutions, including the adoption of Senate Resolution 37, which designates the week of April 17 to April 23 as Cambodian Genocide Memorial Week. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Cambodian genocide, during which the Khmer Rouge regime, led by Pol Pot, was responsible for the deaths of over 1.7 million Cambodians, nearly a quarter of the country's population at the time.

Senator Lena Gonzalez, who introduced the resolution, emphasized the importance of remembering the tragic events that occurred between 1975 and 1979. She highlighted the systematic eradication of Cambodian culture and the devastating impact on families and communities. The resolution aims to honor the lives lost and recognize the resilience of the Cambodian American community, particularly in Long Beach, which hosts the largest Cambodian population outside of Cambodia.

Several senators expressed their support for the resolution, reflecting on the broader implications of genocide and the importance of education and remembrance. Senator Stern, chair of the state's Holocaust and Genocide Education Council, shared his experiences with survivors and praised the Cambodian community's strength in rebuilding their lives and culture in the United States. Senator Wahab echoed these sentiments, noting the resilience of Cambodians and the significance of acknowledging their history.

The resolution received unanimous support from the Senate, underscoring a collective commitment to remembering the past and fostering solidarity with the Cambodian community. Following the adoption of SR 37, Senator Gonzalez introduced several community leaders from Long Beach, many of whom are survivors of the genocide, to the Senate floor, further emphasizing the personal connections to this historical event.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued awareness and education about the Cambodian genocide, reinforcing the importance of preventing such atrocities in the future.