The Journey of Diego de la Vega: A Bittersweet Tale of Immigration and Activism

Early Life and Immigration Struggles

Diego de la Vega’s journey began in Ecuador, where he was born before moving to the United States at the age of seven on a tourist visa that his family overstayed. For 23 years, he navigated life in America without proper documentation, experiencing the constant fear and challenges of living in the shadows. Despite these obstacles, Diego grew up in New York, where he had a relatively good childhood, though always under the cloud of his undocumented status.

Rise in Politics and Advocacy

Diego’s passion for change led him into politics, starting with immigrant rights groups. His talent and dedication earned him roles in New York State politics, including as communications director for Robert Rodriguez, a member of the New York State Assembly. In 2021, he joined Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s re-election campaign, eventually becoming her deputy communications director—a remarkable ascent for someone without citizenship. His work highlighted both his capabilities and the complexities of U.S. immigration policies.

Decision to Self-Deport

After years of living with the uncertainty of his status, Diego made the difficult decision to self-deport to Colombia. This choice, though freeing from the fear of deportation, meant exile from the only home he had known as an adult. Diego expressed mixed emotions about leaving, acknowledging the relief of living openly but grieving the loss of his life in the U.S.

Frustrations with the Immigration System

Diego’s frustrations with the immigration movement stem from its lack of progress, particularly during the Biden administration, which had the political power but failed to enact reforms. He criticizes the movement’s inability to adapt, leading to a sense of stagnation. His work with Ocasio-Cortez, who supports immigration reform, underscored the political divide, with Republican opposition blocking progress.

Personal Reflections and Legacy

Diego’s story is a testament to resilience and the human impact of immigration policies. From childhood fears to becoming a political figure, his journey reflects the broader struggles of undocumented immigrants. His decision to leave, while freeing, underscores the system’s failure to provide pathways for contributors like himself, leaving a community that valued his work.

Broader Implications and Political Dynamics

Diego’s narrative illustrates the complexities of U.S. immigration, highlighting contributions of undocumented immigrants and the political gridlock that affects their lives. His transparency with voters and the challenges faced in communicating political realities reveal the deeper divisions in U.S. politics. His move to Colombia, while offering freedom, also represents a loss for the community he served, ending a chapter marked by both achievement and struggle.