17 Comments
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John Thoma's avatar

Anand, thank you (and your publisher) for sharing this story with us. Alexandria’s courage and empathy brings me to tears. The uplifting and importance of AOC’s story in today’s politics is inspiring and prophetic.

Debbie Kitchen's avatar

Thank you for this important series. We need her…

Barbara Draimin's avatar

I think that like Barack, she needs to write her own autobiograpy and this outline is a fabulous start. Had Sanders taken her advice, history might have been very different.

Lynn's avatar

Wonderful! More of AOC’s background needs to get out to the American public.

Martha MacRae's avatar

Yes! Excellent - both the writing of the story, and the story.

I didn’t know very much about her before reading this.

She is a very authentic, caring and courageous person.

I wish her well in her important mission.

c;aore's avatar

I've been a Young Socialist for 55 years. I am living in Atlanta as a fish out of water. But, I am looking at Jon Ossoff for a presidential run.

Julie M. Finch's avatar

Thank you so much for this; I've always admired her. Am so interested in all of this, about her transiting between her cousins in the Bronx and going to school in the suburbs. Hmm, reading books where white people were, seeing movies with white people as the only characters.

Nikhil Sheth's avatar

Nikhil Sheth,

Thank you Anand. This is a huge service to many of us. Richness in life just does not come from large inheritance. Learning about her journey can enrich all of us. Eagerly awaiting next four parts. Thanks again.

James McCarthy's avatar

Thought I knew much of Sandy’s background, but your piece is revelatory. Thank you, Anand.

Dr. Bob Abell's avatar

Fascinating story. As a Canadian, I have watched her laser like focus and questioning of other politicians on important issues. Learning the background, wow ....

Annie Dawid's avatar

So compelling. I didn't know these details about AOC's background, and your narrative embraces all the nuances of her coming of age. Thank you.

Patti S's avatar

This is a wonderful piece / thank you so much for your beautiful writing, Anand. Like previ

ous pieces of yours, I find myself sorely disappointed that I have come to the end of it. AOC has been my favorite political figure since she entered Congress. What an amazing human she is and what a gift to this country. I can't wait to learn more from the next four parts.

She is a game changer, and we need the change she can usher us into; I see our first woman president, and her name is Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, Sandy for short or AOC for shorter.

William Minter's avatar

Your best writing since the post many years ago about your mother-in-law, if I remember correctly from that long ago. My wife edited several of her Voices of the Poor series.

June M Grifo's avatar

Thank youfor talkind about someone I deeply admire,

Jurian Hughes's avatar

Thank u! I want to know everything about AOC! If she runs for President I’m committed to helping her win. I’ve never believed so whole-heartedly in a potential candidate.

Theresa Avenant's avatar

Anand, you are one of my heroes and I am so grateful for what I have learned from your stories and interviews. Alexandria reminds me a bit of myself and a lot of my daughter who is in the process of completing their doctorate in education in NYC. I am now 78 years old and came from a lower middle class family but persevered over many years to become a Family Lawyer. Most of my clients were poor so I didn't make a lot of money but my work gave me satisfaction that money could not buy. My child also fought their way through her tertiary education. Starting off as a journalist she worked in China for three years to pay for her Masters from LSE. Then she won a scholarship and fellowship at one of top graduate schools in NY. It was hard for me at times and I think even harder for my baby. They coming home next month after 5 years away from home (in South Africa) My musician hubby and I can't wait to see our child again. We are so excited. I will keep your articles on Alexandria for them to read when they get home. Alexandria's story has been an inspiration to me. Thank you. Theresa Avenant.