Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the hyper-progressive Democrat from New York City, is set to embark on a supposedly diplomatic journey with fellow House Democrats to South America, where she hopes to engage in discussions about what she terms “post-colonial foreign policy.”
Ocasio-Cortez announced her upcoming congressional delegation to Brazil, Chile, and Colombia via an Instagram Q&A session on Monday night. During the August break, when many lawmakers travel overseas, Ocasio-Cortez and a group of her colleagues plan to engage with leaders and stakeholders from these nations.
Climate change and green energy will be key topics of conversation during her trip. Ocasio-Cortez expressed her interest in exploring the potential for a collaborative, climate-centered, and post-colonial foreign policy, especially in the Western Hemisphere.
“I am particularly interested in what a collaborative, climate-centered, post-colonial foreign policy could look like, especially in the Western Hemisphere,” she added.
“There is a lot to cover here, from protection of the Amazon and indigenous rights to renewable energy development. I’m looking forward to it!” she added.
However, the specifics of her vision for a “post-colonial foreign policy” remain unclear at this point.
The congresswoman’s delegation includes progressive representatives Nydia Velázquez, Greg Casar, Maxwell Frost, and Joaquin Castro. Together, they will address not only climate matters but also immigration and the United States’ role in shaping migration patterns.
Rep. Nydia Velázquez: "Every single Republican who stood by the monstrosity that is Donald Trump has blood on their hands." pic.twitter.com/CQpvp5Pn50
— The Hill (@thehill) January 9, 2021
Ocasio-Cortez’s previous criticism of U.S. cannabis policies as “colonial” underscores her propensity to frame contemporary issues within the lens of historical injustices. Her viewpoint on matters of policy often seeks to challenge traditional norms and advocate for systemic change.
