El Salvador is a small tropical country at the heart of Central America on the Pacific. Almost 3 million Salvadorans are ex-pats, and most of them live in the United States. Salvadorans have mainly migrated because of natural disasters, social unrest and violence.
Despite enduring long cycles of extreme violence from powerful criminal gangs, Salvadorans are peaceful, kind and welcoming. The Salvadoran community in the United States is represented across all industries, and Salvadorans have a strong presence in Sussex County, particularly in the hospitality industry.
In Rehoboth Beach
Salvadoran-owned businesses in Sussex County generate employment and actively support Delaware’s economy. One example is Mariachi Restaurant, on Wilmington Avenue in Rehoboth Beach, an authentic Latino restaurant owned and operated by Salvadoran-born Yolanda Pineda.
Yolanda left El Salvador in 1975. “I was 17 years old when I left my country. My life was just beginning. The plan was to come here for two years to make some money to fix up my house in El Salvador, and almost 50 years later, I am still here.”
Mama Yolanda
Yolanda’s regulars and staff call her Mama Yolanda. “My clients and my employees are my extended family. I want everyone to feel welcome when they walk through the door because you are coming into my house.” “Mi casa es su casa” is the motto that motivates and guides Yolanda’s management style.
As a single mother and sole provider of two children, who now are college graduates, Yolanda said we must continue to remind immigrant Hispanic parents that the possibilities are limitless for their children.
“I would like for parents to teach the new generation that we can work in something other than restaurants and construction, that their children can do whatever they want,” said Yolanda, who wants people to stop stereotyping Latinos. “We need to start by educating the parents, by letting them know their choices and involvement make a difference. I chose to participate in my children’s education and push them to pursue their dreams. And if I had to do it all over again, I would.”
Events, fundraisers
Mariachi Restaurant partners regularly with local organizations and businesses to host events and hold fundraisers. “We are a tight-knit community with strong connections, and there is a lot of support,” Yolanda added.
Mariachi is open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Information: 302-227-0115, email eat@mariachirehobothde.com, or visit www.mariachirehobothde.com.