Event

Asian American Across the Disciplines presents K. Naroen Chhin, Cambodian-American refugee. Hosted by Dr.  Sonya G. Chen

Panda Express Postdoctoral Fellow in Asian American Studies.

K. Naroen Chhin is a Cambodian-American refugee, Philadelphia native, and respected leader in social justice, immigrant rights, and criminal justice reform. From serving as a janitor at Temple and Penn to being appointed to state and city commissions, Chhin has built a life rooted in community organizing, policy reform, and advocacy. His work spans leadership roles on oversight boards, testifying before global institutions, and co-directing the 1Love Movement, where he helped shape Philadelphia’s Sanctuary City status.

As a former VP of the Southeast Asian Market at FDR Park, he and his team empowered 76 immigrant vendors, generating $5.75M in economic impact and creating 92 jobs. A small business owner, union steward, podcast host, and public speaker, Chhin continues to drive systemic change through grassroots action, labor rights, and uplifting marginalized voices—all grounded in his "Eye Level" philosophy of authentic human connection.