Arn Chorn-Pond Visits Wilmington Friends

During his visit, Arn spent the day meeting with students in classrooms across divisions, sharing his remarkable story and engaging in thoughtful discussions about resilience, creativity, and the power of art to heal. He noted how impressed he was by the students’ curiosity and deep engagement, expressing gratitude for their insightful questions and reflections.

Later that day, Arn gave a moving presentation in the Library Learning Commons, where he shared his journey of survival through the Khmer Rouge regime and how he found hope and purpose through music. His testimony offered a powerful reminder of the role that art plays as a lifeline during times of conflict and trauma, and how creativity can rebuild communities and foster peace. Through his work with Cambodian Living Arts, Arn continues to inspire people around the world to use art as a force for healing, connection, and social change. It was an unforgettable experience for our community—one that left us all reflecting on the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring strength of culture.

The presentation was sponsored by the Nathan M. Clark Foundation, committed to adding to the quality of life in and around Wilmington, Delaware and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by supporting arts, culture, and redevelopment initiatives.