Washington, DC -- Nobel Peace Prize nominee and human rights advocate Mu Sochua visits Washington, DC, this month to discuss sex slavery, human rights, and her continued fight against injustice and corruption in Cambodia.
Mu Sochua made headlines around the world in 2009 by standing up to Cambodia’s powerful Prime Minister after he publicly insulted her with degrading language. Facing jail time, Mu’s open letter, “As I walk to prison”, provoked an outcry from the international community. Mu was found guilty by the courts, which are known to be a political tool of the ruling party. By court order, Mu’s salary was deducted and her parliamentary immunity is still pending.
Considered one of the most courageous leaders in her country, Mu Sochua has been called “Cambodia’s fearless heroine” by The Daily Beast and a “passionate fighter for girls and women” by Oprah Winfrey’s O Magazine.
With trials against Khmer Rouge officials accused of genocide from the 1970’s finally underway, Mu Sochua can talk about the pain of losing her parents to the bloodshed, the need for justice, and the hope that freedom and transparency can bring to her country’s fledgling democracy.
Mu Sochua was featured in the HBO film “REDLIGHT”, narrated by actress Lucy Liu, that tells the stories of young Cambodian girls sold into brothels. Mu Sochua has helped mobilize over 12,000 women candidates to run in commune elections. Over 900 women were elected, ushering in a new generation of women leaders. Mu Sochua has the support of her party to include 450 women candidates in winning positions for the 2012 local elections.
Mu Sochua is the recipient of the Vital Voices' Human Rights Global Leadership Award, presented by Sen. Hillary Clinton.
Mu Sochua will be meeting with members of Congress and attending the Vital Voices Global Leadership Awards at the Kennedy Center.
For more information or to arrange an interview please contact Emily Sherman.
