Diego de la Vega, a former illegal immigrant aide to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has self-deported to Colombia after working in Congress without legal status. He expressed mixed emotions about leaving the U.S. but appreciates the freedom he found in Colombia. His departure raises concerns regarding employment practices for undocumented individuals in political roles.
Diego de la Vega, a former illegal immigrant who served as an aide to Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has self-deported to Colombia, expressing appreciation for the “freedom of movement” experienced there. Originally from Ecuador, he immigrated to the United States at the age of seven in 2001 on an overstayed visitor’s visa, according to reports from Migrant Insider.
De la Vega’s departure raises concerns regarding his employment with Ocasio-Cortez, especially given that he worked in Congress without legal status. He remarked on the bittersweet nature of his move after not leaving the country for 23 years, stating that leaving the U.S. feels like exile but expressed confidence about the decision made with his wife.
Reflecting on his new life, de la Vega shared, “It feels surreal to not be illegalized anymore. I don’t have to live in the shadows or constantly worry about paperwork.” His political activism began after the Dream Act’s failure in 2010, which led to his roles in immigrant rights groups and his eventual position with Ocasio-Cortez’s re-election campaign.
Ocasio-Cortez praised de la Vega’s contributions, stating, “Diego is amazing. We love him.” However, his employment raised questions since DACA recipients are restricted from paid congressional roles. De la Vega expressed discontent with current immigration strategies, remarking on the lack of progress under both political parties. He concluded by acknowledging that while he may be unable to return to the U.S. for an extended period, Colombia feels fulfilling as his home.
Diego de la Vega’s self-deportation to Colombia highlights complexities surrounding immigration and employment status for undocumented individuals. His notable role with Representative Ocasio-Cortez raises significant questions about employment practices within Congress. De la Vega’s reflections reveal personal struggles with identity and the ongoing challenges faced by the immigrant community, emphasizing a need for reformed immigration strategies.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
