american dream

By Ashton Salazar

In San Jose, the Cambodian population is around 0.051%, which is around 6,000 people according to this website. link Zipatlas.com

That small, intricate number includes my mom, a hardworking woman defining her own version of the American dream.

My mother Yonnary Som was about 18 when her family immigrated to America. Her family of 8 assimilated to the American culture, first landing in Chicago. Later finding her way to East Side San Jose. Although it took difficulties such as learning English and gaining an American education, she was able to begin a corporate job working with tech. A couple of years passed, and her company decided to lay off many workers, and fortunately, my mom was thrown into that mix.

Ms Som: “It was very scary because my first job and I didn't know what would happen after”

My mom was always interested in pretty flowers and the delicacy of caring for plants, so having the opportunity to create a business out of her hobby worked in her favor. Before I was born (about 21 years ago) she started selling plants at the Capitol Flea market. My dad helped her kickstart this new career. 

I always admired how determined she was. The night before every weekend, she would load up her van with all her essentials like the plants and tools. Waking up at 4 in the morning to make a small breakfast, then getting ready to leave the house. Occasionally my siblings would come to work with her and help her set up shop. 

Ms Som: “When Frankie (son) was 12, he helped carry the big heavy plants but sometimes they were too heavy for him, so papa had to help. Amelia(daughter) only helped when she wanted money to go buy snacks from Jonny (food vendor) because I pay them”

Business was okay in the beginning, it was not particularly slow or overwhelming with customers. Over the course of many years she developed close relationships with her co-workers, whom she still interacts with to this day. Some were Mexican folks who sold traditional clothing or jewelry, and Vietnamese vendors who sold stationary items. I have always known the flea market is a vibrant place that holds a lot of diversity. All communities and backgrounds get together and share their differences. 

It is safe to say she still loves her job and taking care of plants is something she will continue doing for years to come. Being Cambodian is an essential part of Ms Soms’ identity, and I think it is very special to have representation in a small community like San Jose. As for me, growing up in multiple cultures celebrating different traditions, the importance of representation in my household and also implemented in the working field deepens my understanding of my mother's ethnicity and her struggles. Both in traditional and non-traditional ways.

For the Warriors time, this is Ashton Salazar.