Gabriel Ocasio-Cortez is a Deaf and hard-of-hearing activist, advocate for the homeless, and artist. He’s also been compared to a young Marc Anthony by Cardi B. His big sister, Alexandria, is no slouch either; she’s a famous Democratic congresswoman from New York.
Ocasio-Cortez describes his job helping to connect the homeless to housing as “a blend of therapist, interpreter, and dealmaker.” This year, Ocasio Cortez says he “took back my overdue joy” by breaking unhealthy cycles in his relationships and within himself. But finding kindness for himself is an ongoing struggle. “I’m not into toxic positivity,” he says. “I respect people who tell you what they’re dealing with.”
Next up, he plans to work with entertainment studios and publishers to ensure they have proper accessibility protocols for the hard of hearing, including correct captioning that doesn’t cover characters’ faces. “Disability rights include an equitable seat at the table, access to captioning, and a minimum of consideration everywhere else that humans find joy,” he says.
His advice for others: “You can be whatever you want at any moment — let necessity be your fuel for reinvention.” @gabrielocasiocortez
