Arn Chorn-Pond (Photo – cambodianlivingarts)
On Sunday, November 2, UNA-USA Pasadena will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the United Nations with an inspiring event at Maxwell House, located on the Western Justice Center campus. From 1:00 to 3:00 pm, attendees will gather for a special afternoon centered around the UN’s theme for this year’s UN Day: “Building Our Future Together.”
By Rena Kurlander
The event will feature an engaging conversation between UNA-USA Pasadena President Ann Diederich and guest of honor Arn Chorn-Pond, a genocide survivor, former child soldier, refugee, and passionate advocate for human rights and the UN’s mission. Chorn-Pond, who survived the horrors of Pol Pot’s regime, will reflect on his experiences and discuss his ongoing work with Cambodian Living Arts. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge regime, a significant milestone that Chorn-Pond is commemorating through a speaking tour.
As part of the discussion, attendees will hear about Chorn-Pond’s journey from refugee to renowned human rights advocate and learn how the UN, along with organizations like Amnesty International, continues to shape global peace, justice, and well-being.
“We want everyone to walk away from this event with a deeper understanding of how the UN’s mission relates to our local communities and how we can all contribute to building a better future,” said Diederich. “It’s a moment to reflect, act, and meet the challenges of our time with the tools and goals the UN has set forth.”
In addition to the main interview, the event will recognize the winners of the 5th Annual Video Challenge. These local students and activists created powerful short films that highlight the UN’s work in promoting global peace and sustainable development. Their videos will be celebrated for their creativity and commitment to advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event will be catered by Flavors from Afar, a culinary initiative of the TIYYA Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports newly arrived refugees. This partnership underscores the ongoing efforts of local organizations to support refugees and newcomers to the United States.
RSVP is required for attendance (registrants will receive an email with event details within 24 hours of the event). This is a unique opportunity for community members to learn, engage, and take part in a global conversation about the future of humanity and the role of the United Nations.
UN Day 2025: Meeting the Moment and Building Our Future Together Sunday, November 2, 2025 1:00 – 3:00 pm Location Maxwell House, Western Justice Center RSVP is required.
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