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A former aide to Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has publicly announced his voluntary departure from the United States, opting to return to Colombia amid ongoing discussions about immigration and employment status. This decision raises significant questions regarding his tenure in Congress, particularly given his illegal immigrant status.
Diego de la Vega, who was born in Ecuador, has shared his journey of coming to the United States at the age of seven in 2001. His arrival was facilitated by a visitor’s visa, which he overstayed, leading to his undocumented status for many years. De la Vega’s story underscores the complexities surrounding immigration policies in America today.
The Significance of Self-Deportation
The act of self-deportation by de la Vega has been characterized by him as a bittersweet experience. He stated, “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.” This statement highlights the emotional toll that immigration policies can exert on individuals living in the shadows.
Reflecting on his new life in Colombia, he expressed relief at no longer living under the constant stress associated with undocumented status. “It feels surreal to not be illegalized anymore. I don’t have to live in the shadows or constantly worry about paperwork,
