Background
The Cambodia Center for Human Rights' ("CCHR") Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity ("SOGI") project is working to protect and promote human rights for the Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender ("LGBT") community in Cambodia who are often misunderstood, mistreated, threatened and have their human rights violated.
About the Rainbow Krama
The SOGI team has designed and produced a Rainbow Krama – the traditional Cambodian scarf – which is being sold at various cultural and social venues in both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The krama is a traditional Cambodian garment worn by men, women and children. The krama is used in many ways, including as a scarf or fashion accessory, as protection from the sun, and for decorative purposes. The rainbow colors of the krama represent diversity and inclusiveness in the LGBT community.
The purpose of the Rainbow Krama is to raise awareness of the rights of LGBT people and promote respect for LGBT people. The Rainbow Kramas are sold locally in Cambodia, and CCHR is expanding sales internationally as a way of increasing support for the Cambodian LGBT community. Proceeds from the sale of the Rainbow Kramas will fund legal support to LGBT victims of discrimination.
The Rainbow Kramas are produced in Prek Bangkang village, Prek Takov commune, Ksach Kandal district, Kandal province by Pheng Sang. Pheng Sang has been weaving since 1988 and operates her business along side her wife, friends and family. Pheng Sang also works for the Community Legal Service Hotline in her village.
Purchasing a Rainbow Krama
Rainbow Kramas are currently available for purchase at the following retails;
- Baitong Restaurant
Address: No.07, St. 360, Sangkat Boeung KengKongI, Khan Chamkarmorn, Phnom Penh.
Tel: 015 626169 - Knhay Khmer Restaurant
Address: #25, Soramrith Bld., (East of Independent Monument) Phnom Penh.
Tel: 093 399935 - Krama Yoga
Address: No 52, St 302, BKK 1, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Tel: 012 584 930 - the Amnesty International USA online store
Selling the Rainbow Kramas
CCHR is interested in expanding sales of the Rainbow Kramas both in Cambodia and abroad. Rainbow Kramas are currently being sold in various cultural and social venues in Cambodia. The Rainbow Krama is also being sold abroad by partner organizations. These partnerships are significantly contributing to the outreach capabilities of the Rainbow Krama project.
If you are interested in partnering with CCHR and selling Rainbow Kramas on behalf of CCHR, or for more information on the project, please email us at [email protected].