Sreyna Stoddard: Reconnecting to my Cultural Roots Through Khmer Dance
My name is Sreyna Neary Stoddard, and I am a student at Deering High School. I was born in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and when I was five years old, I moved to Portland, Maine, with my biological father.
Today, I would like to share the story of a traditional Cambodian dance called Neary Chear Chor and how it helped me reconnect with my culture and discover a stronger sense of who I am.
The word Neary means "woman," and Neary Chear Chor celebrates the grace, kindness, and inner strength of women. What makes this dance unique is that the story is told without words. Through graceful hand gestures, delicate movements, and facial expressions, the dancer communicates emotions of peace, respect, and beauty. Every movement has meaning, reminding us of the values and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
This dance is often performed during cultural celebrations and community events. It welcomes guests, honors elders, and helps preserve Cambodian culture by passing it on to younger generations.
For me, preserving culture became deeply personal. When I was 11 years old, I experienced difficult circumstances with my biological family that led me into foster care. It was one of the hardest times in my life. Today, I am grateful to have been adopted by a wonderful family that supports and encourages me in everything I do.
Growing up, I was surrounded by Cambodian traditions, but after joining a family outside of my culture, I began to feel disconnected from my heritage and my native language. I wasn't sure how to hold on to that part of myself.
Then I discovered Khmer Maine.
At first, I thought it was simply a place to learn Cambodian dance. Instead, it became a place where I reconnected with my culture and found a community that welcomed me.
My friend Sarita encouraged me to join the dance program. I was hesitant because I wasn't sure I would fit in, but I decided to give it a chance. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
Learning traditional dance was not easy. I struggled with the movements, the music, and the rhythm. There were many moments when I doubted myself. But with encouragement from my instructors and teammates, and through lots of practice, I slowly improved.
One of my proudest moments was learning the Blessing Dance. After weeks of practicing, everything finally came together during rehearsal. I realized how much I had grown, and that experience taught me that progress comes through patience, perseverance, and hard work.
The Blessing Dance is still my favorite because it represents blessings, protection, and good fortune. When I was younger, I admired dancers wearing beautiful traditional costumes and dreamed that one day I would perform that dance myself.
Today, at 15 years old, that dream has become a reality. Through dance, I have learned much more than choreography. I have gained confidence, discipline, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for my Cambodian heritage. Most importantly, I learned that true strength does not come from facing challenges alone. It comes from accepting support and allowing others to stand beside you.
Khmer Maine has become that support system for me. It has given me friendships, encouragement, and a place where I truly belong. The program has also helped me overcome my fear of performing in front of others. My first performance was terrifying, but with each performance, my confidence grew. Something that once made me anxious has become something I now enjoy.
Today, I am proud to be Cambodian. Through Neary Chear Chor and Khmer traditional dance, I have reconnected with my heritage, discovered a supportive community, and gained a stronger understanding of who I am.
