A Cuban residing in Nebraska, known on social media as Soy Edgy, has delivered a sharp response to criticisms he faced after sharing videos of his shopping experiences at discount stores like Ross and Goodwill. Critics have targeted him, suggesting he should be "ashamed" for purchasing clothing from these stores rather than opting for luxury brands.
The content creator, who frequently shares savings tips and immigrant experiences on his profile @soy_edgy, began his video by quoting some of the negative comments he received: "You should be ashamed, being Cuban, to buy your clothes at Ross and Goodwill"; "What, working at McDonald's or Walmart?"; "You're a poor devil who should be deported to the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base."
In response, Soy Edgy delivered a straightforward and thoughtful message about the economic realities facing immigrants in the United States: "For those of you who criticize, 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 in a few years, you shop at Versace; the clothes aren't going anywhere."
He further added, "Today you work at Walmart, and tomorrow you own your own store with employees working for you. Opportunities will always be there for those who seek them." The video received a flood of supportive comments, with many users backing the Cuban's stance and rejecting the social pressure to spend on expensive brands.
One follower commented, "People are crazy, what's happening in this world," while another affirmed, "Exactly, here we don't live by appearances." Another user expressed, "I shop at Ross and always will," and someone else stated, "People with money in this country are the ones who manage their finances and don't need to show off because their cards and bank accounts speak for them."
Other reactions included statements like, "All those brands are from millionaires selling to the poor who think they're rich" and "So much truth in one minute." Some emphasized that "the only appearance that matters is that of our bank accounts" and "half my clothes are from Ross and the other half from Shein." A user commented, "I love your content, you're very realistic," while another added, "It's a waste of money to buy luxury items just because sometimes they don't even have quality."
This isn't the first video where the Cuban addresses the importance of effort and financial planning to progress in the United States. Days earlier, he posted another viral video titled "Here We Come to Work, Not to Cry," where he stressed the need to leave complaints behind and focus on personal and economic growth.
On that occasion, his message sparked a broad debate on TikTok, with followers supporting him and others questioning the difficulty of the current job market. Nevertheless, Soy Edgy remains steadfast in his belief that success in the U.S. hinges on determination and personal effort.
The case of this content creator highlights a recurring theme among Latino immigrants in the United States: the social pressure surrounding consumption and the struggle between appearance and financial stability. While some criticize shopping at discount stores, others view them as a crucial tool for saving and thriving in the long run.
Understanding Immigrant Shopping Habits in the U.S.
Why do some immigrants in the U.S. choose to shop at discount stores like Ross and Goodwill?
Many immigrants shop at discount stores to manage their finances wisely and save money while still accessing necessary items. These stores offer affordable options that help them maintain financial stability and allocate resources to other critical needs like education and healthcare.
What message does Soy Edgy convey to his followers through his content?
Soy Edgy emphasizes the importance of financial prudence and hard work for immigrants in the U.S. He encourages his followers to focus on saving money and seizing opportunities for personal and economic growth rather than succumbing to social pressure to spend on luxury items.