Danielle Bopha Khleang

Danielle Bopha Khleang, 20’s
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
she/her

Current Role: Communications Consultant + Women's Empowerment Mentor

What racial, ethnic, cultural community or communities do you identify with? 
Mixed: Khmer + White.

When and how did your family come to the United States? Where were you born?
My dad came to the US in 1976 as a refugee. My mom's family came as settler colonialists. I was born in Seattle, WA.

What are the strengths and challenges of being Asian, Asian American, and/or Pacific Islander?
My identity as a person of color is inseparable from my identity as a white person. Literally my body is both and neither at the same time. So when I look in the mirror, I see the bombed and the war plane. That's my strength and challenge. 

What is your proudest accomplishment?
Working for healthy, supportive relationships with my family. 

What is one thing you learned or appreciate from your family growing up?
Obstinacy. 

Do you speak your family's native language? Why or why not?
Nah. I live in Cambodia now and the amount of Khmer I know is purely laughable. I don't know it because it wasn't accessible to me growing up.    

What advice do you have for the younger generations in our Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander community?
Don't just watch - observe and ask yourself questions.  

What gives you the greatest joy in life?
Connecting with other people over fun activities. 

Are there any projects you have created that you'd like to share and promote?
I just started a blog. It's still a baby and isn't kept up regularly but can be seen here.

If you would like to share your voice as a person of color, please read the directions and fill out this form here. All ages, backgrounds, and generations welcome. Thank you!