Diego de la Vega, a former aide to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has self-deported to Colombia after living illegally in the U.S. since childhood. He expressed relief over the “freedom of movement” in Colombia but also sadness over leaving the U.S. He worked in various political positions, including with Ocasio-Cortez, despite being undocumented. De la Vega criticized the current state of the immigration movement.
Diego de la Vega, a former aide to Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), has officially self-deported to Colombia, highlighting his experience living as an undocumented immigrant in the United States. Born in Ecuador, he immigrated as a child in 2001 and overstayed a visitor’s visa. He expressed appreciation for the “freedom of movement” in Colombia after a lengthy stay in the U.S. without legal status.
During his time in the United States, de la Vega was politically active following the failure of the Dream Act in 2010. He had worked for both a prominent immigrant rights organization and as communications director for Robert Rodriguez, a New York Assembly member. In 2021, he joined Ocasio-Cortez’s re-election campaign, ultimately serving as deputy communications director, despite the limitations on DACA recipients holding paid roles in congressional offices.
Reflecting on his experience, de la Vega remarked, “It feels surreal to not be illegalized anymore. I don’t have to live in the shadows or constantly worry about paperwork.” He articulated a sense of loss regarding his inability to return to the U.S. but expressed confidence in his decision. De la Vega also conveyed frustration with the immigration movement and urged for an adaptive strategy in modern policy advocacy.
Diego de la Vega’s self-deportation underscores the complex realities faced by undocumented immigrants in the United States. Despite his successful career in politics, he left the U.S. feeling a mix of sadness and relief. His experience brings to light ongoing challenges within the immigration system, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to advocacy and reform.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
