Diego de la Vega, a former aide to Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has self-deported to Colombia, praising its “freedom of movement.” This follows a history of working in the U.S. as an undocumented immigrant. He expressed mixed feelings about leaving the U.S. after 23 years, highlighting the transition from living in fear to enjoying freedom in Colombia.
Diego de la Vega, formerly an aide to Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has reportedly self-deported to Colombia. He expressed satisfaction with the “freedom of movement” in Colombia following his departure from the United States, where he had worked in Congress despite being an undocumented immigrant. De la Vega, originally from Ecuador, overstayed a visitor’s visa since he was seven years old.
De la Vega shared with Migrant Insider, “It’s bittersweet. I hadn’t left the country in 23 years — from age seven to age 30. Now, I can’t go back to the U.S. It feels like exile.” He affirmed that his relocation to Colombia with his wife was a well-considered decision, adding that the experience has been pleasant.
He reflected, “It feels surreal to not be illegalized anymore. I don’t have to live in the shadows or constantly worry about paperwork. That freedom of movement is incredibly satisfying.” His political engagement began after the Dream Act’s failure in 2010, leading him to work for immigrant rights organizations and, subsequently, in various political roles.
After serving as the communications director for Robert Rodriguez in the New York State Assembly, he joined Ocasio-Cortez’s re-election campaign in 2021. Ocasio-Cortez praised de la Vega, stating, “Diego is amazing. We love him.” However, his employment raised questions as DACA recipients cannot hold paid roles in congressional offices.
De la Vega emphasized their transparent communication with voters, noting, “We didn’t dumb it down or tell them what they wanted to hear.” Furthermore, he expressed his frustrations with the immigration movement’s ineffective strategy, highlighting missed opportunities during the Biden administration. While he acknowledges the possibility of not returning to the U.S. for many years, he stated, “it feels fulfilling to be home.”
In summary, Diego de la Vega’s self-deportation to Colombia has stirred significant discussions regarding employment and immigration laws. His experiences reflect the complexities faced by undocumented immigrants, particularly in political roles. De la Vega’s heartfelt sentiments illustrate the challenges of navigating life between two countries, portraying both a sense of loss and newfound freedom in his decision to relocate.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
