A Cuban resident in Nebraska, known on social media as Soy Edgy, responded emphatically to criticisms he has received after sharing videos showcasing his purchases at discount stores like Ross or Goodwill. Some users attacked him, claiming he should feel "ashamed" for buying clothes at these establishments instead of opting for luxury brands.
The content creator, who often shares savings tips and experiences as an immigrant on his profile @soy_edgy, began his video by citing some of the negative comments he has received: "You should be ashamed, being Cuban, to buy your clothes at Ross and Goodwill"; "Working at McDonald's or Walmart"; "You're a poor devil who should be deported to the Naval Base at Guantanamo."
In light of this, Soy Edgy did not hesitate to respond with a direct and thoughtful message about the economic reality of immigrants in the United States: "What do you criticize so much in the comments, did you come to this country to spend money or to save? When you arrived, what management position were you offered at which hotel? One day you shop at Ross and a couple of years later you shop at Versace, clothes are not going to disappear into the wind". He added: "Today you work at Walmart and tomorrow you have your own store with employees working for you. Opportunities will always be there for those who seek them out."
The video received a flood of supportive comments, with many users backing the Cuban's stance and rejecting social pressure to spend on expensive brands. "People are crazy, what's happening in this world?" commented one follower, while another asserted, "That's right, we don't live for appearances here." Someone else expressed, "I shop at Ross and I always will," while another user stated, "People with money in this country are those who manage their finances and don't need to pretend because their cards and bank accounts speak for them." Among other reactions, it was noted: "All those brands are for millionaires who sell to the poor who think they're rich" and "So much truth in one minute."
Others pointed out that "the only appearance that matters is that of our bank accounts" and that "half of my clothes are from Ross and the other half from Shein." One user commented: "I love your content, you're very realistic," while another added: "It's an unnecessary expenditure to buy luxury items just because sometimes they don't even have quality."
This is not the first video in which the Cuban discusses the importance of effort and financial planning to succeed in the United States. Days earlier, he had published another viral video titled "Here You Come to Work, Not to Weep", in which he emphasized the need to set aside complaints and focus on personal and economic growth.
On that occasion, his message sparked a wide-ranging debate on TikTok, with supporters backing him and others questioning the challenges of the current job market. However, Soy Edgy has maintained his stance that success in the U.S. depends on determination and personal effort.
The case of this content creator reflects a recurring theme among Latino immigrants in the United States: the social pressure regarding consumption and the struggle between appearance and financial stability. While some criticize shopping at discount stores, others see it as a key tool for saving and thriving in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions about Conscious Consumption and the Experience of Cuban Immigrants in the U.S.
Why does Soy Edgy shop at discount stores?
I am Edgy and I shop at discount stores like Ross and Goodwill to save money and manage my finances better as an immigrant in the United States. I believe it's important to focus on saving and taking advantage of economic opportunities, rather than spending on unnecessary luxury brands, especially when starting a new life in a foreign country.
How does Soy Edgy respond to criticism regarding his lifestyle in the U.S.?
I am Edgy responding to criticism by emphasizing the importance of personal effort and financial planning to progress in the United States. I defend the idea that all jobs are dignified and that opportunities are always available to those who seek them. Furthermore, I stress that there is no need to put on a facade to be successful.
What message does Soy Edgy seek to convey through its videos?
I am Edgy seeks to convey a message of reality and overcoming, showing that all jobs are respectable and that success in the U.S. depends on personal effort and determination. It aims to inspire other immigrants to value every effort and to challenge the prejudices that exist regarding consumption and appearance.
Why do some immigrants choose to shop at discount stores in the U.S.?
Many immigrants in the U.S. choose to shop at discount stores to better manage their financial resources and ensure long-term financial stability. These stores offer quality products at more affordable prices, allowing shoppers to save money while meeting their basic needs.
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