This card deck was created as a guide to navigate often difficult and vulnerable conversations between multigenerational Cambodian Americans. Because of a general lack of resources and education of Cambodian history in the United States, many second and later generations of Khmer Americans feel disconnected from both Cambodian and American cultures. “Nurturing offspring of survivors who experienced genocide requires teaching the historical events from the past to inform and to build resiliency” (Pol-Lim, 2024). These card decks can provide multigenerational Cambodian Americans the opportunity to learn from their refugee family members and community about their cultural history and personal experiences. The aim is for participants to not only feel more connected to each other but also feel more connected with their culture and heritage. This card deck was made as a resource for counselors to help their clients of Khmer heritage explore the ways that intergenerational trauma impacts them through a gentle approach. This resource serves as a tool in encouraging more open conversations around mental health and trauma, a step forward towards destigmatizing mental health within the community and healing intergenerational trauma.
This card deck was created with counselors in mind to use with their clients in session. However, it can be used similarly to other card games both alone and in larger group settings. Each player alternates asking and answering questions and engaging in the activities listed on the cards.
Alternate link to view card deck can be viewed here.
Pol-Lim, S., & Slater, C. L. (2024). Understanding Parental Historical Trauma and the Effect on Second-Generation Cambodian Americans. Journal of Loss & Trauma, 29(6), 711–729.