Samrach Sar, Esq.

Samrach Sar, Esq., 30’s
Portland, Oregon
he/him

Current Role: Attorney 

What racial, ethnic, cultural community or communities do you identify with? 
Cambodian (Khmer).

When and how did your family come to the United States? Where were you born?
My family immigrated to the U.S. in 1981. I was born at a well known UNHCR refugee camp called “Khao I Dang,” located in Thailand at the border of Cambodia.

What are the strengths and challenges of being Asian, Asian American, and/or Pacific Islander?
I can speak to my strengths that I learned from my family which is to be principled in all the things I set out to do and to be industrious, that is to work hard to attain your goals. 

Challenges for minorities in the U.S. are far too complex to articulate in a few general statements, however I will say systemic oppression is the underlying cause.

What is your proudest accomplishment?
My two daughters are my proudest accomplishments.

What is one thing you learned or appreciate from your family growing up?
I appreciated that perseverance and sacrifice my parents had in order for our family to survive.

Do you speak your family's native language? Why or why not?
Yes I do speak Khmer, and I grew up translating for my parents and the Cambodian community in my area.

What advice do you have for the younger generations in our Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander community?
Be bold. Focus on your goals and achieve them.

What gives you the greatest joy in life?
My family and my mother’s cooking.

Are there any projects you have created that you'd like to share and promote?
My law firm’s Instagram: @refugee2jd and website: www.immigrationpdx.com​.

If you would like to share your voice as a person of color, please read the directions and fill out this form here. All ages, backgrounds, and generations welcome. Thank you!