Text by: Sokha Srey

The first performance of ‘Mother,’ a new play developed and performed by people with disabilities and elderly community members in collaboration with Lakhorn Kumnit Organization (LKO) and community key actors marks a triumph of inclusivity and the courage to directly address sensitive topics.

The “Mother” was created by groups of community key actors who shed light on the challenges faced by vulnerable groups such as the elderly and persons living with disabilities. These groups have shared their common issues on access to free healthcare, financial stability and physical barriers. Through forum theater, the team share issues to engage stakeholders, relevant authorities and local community. By providing a comprehensive exploration of the challenges, the performance provides the audience with a profound understanding of the experiences, perspectives and potential solutions for individuals with disabilities and the elderly.

The “Mother” specifically exposes the hidden burdens faced by elderly people who must care for their grandchildren while the parents are away earning income. While this role maybe perceived as normal within cultural norms, it necessitates change. Unpaid caregiving places additional strain on the elderly, who are already grappling with health issues and financial constraints.  The forum provides a platform for elderly participants to voice their concerns, challenging the misconception that intergenerational dialogue is culturally prohibited.

In addition, the narrative highlights the challenges and importance of social protection programs, particularly the accessibility of social assistance, social pensions for the elderly, ID-poor cards, and Disability ID cards for people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.

Bonny Coome, Co-founder and Managing Director of LKO shared personal highlights from the event, noting the enthusiastic attendance and active involvement of a significant number of individuals with disabilities—a marginalized groups in Cambodia.  Despite prevalent discrimination, it is usually the physical environment that restricts the participation of people with disabilities. 
However, on this occasion, that was not the case. Bonny also highlighted the groundbreaking moment when Chief Em Sophal of Ochar Commune assumes a role in the Forum session, marking the first instance of a Cambodian government representative directly participating in the theatrical action. Government representatives usually give comments as themselves from their seats or share their thoughts as part of a formal speech. They don’t usually take on a role in the drama.

This unique occurrence exemplified the power of Forum Theater, where a Commune Chief, in the role of a grassroots community member, sought support from a grassroots community member playing the role of a Commune Chief.  

This project is a collaborative effort involving various practitioners including WWD-LAN / KHEN and the Older People Association (OPA) supported by the Community of Practice fund facilitated by Live and Learn Cambodia under Oxfam’s Voice project.