Jul 17, 2008 6:47 pm US/Central
Cambodian Group Working Hard For Republican Party
(WCCO)
Minnesota has the sixth largest population of Cambodian refugees in the United States. One group is called The Cambodian Republican Coalition.
Members say they are busy educating folks about the upcoming convention, one email or phone call at a time.
The Cambodian Republican Coalition was started back in the early 80's. Since then, they have grown to more than 100 members. They've been meeting in restaurants and private homes to push the GOP message.
"Actually the relationship between Cambodian and Republican is not about who you like or who you choose, it's about the quality. Who has a quality and who we believe is going to be a provide strong security for our nation," said Setra, a member of the group.
They have the same message as many political groups: get out and vote to make a difference.
"To get involved with the process of voting. Back in my country, the government not allow to do that. Here we have freedom to select any leader who you want," said Edward Kong.
Promoting the Republican message can be a problem for Cambodians who aren't familiar with the America political process.
"They don't know where to go to vote, and they don't know what district they live in and we try to educate them," said Kong.
Most of the literature that is sent out is in two languages: English and Khmer. The style is very formal.
"We can not use a phrase, we have to use complete, polite language," said Setra.
It also takes twice as long to type e-mails, because there is no keyboard designed for their language. Still, they try to make do.
"Before I type I have to think of the letter and I think of the key, which key that's going to be used for the letter," said Setra.
They say all the hard work is worth it.
"One vote makes a lot of difference, so that's why we need Cambodians to get involved," he added.
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