Women History Month

A member of the Democratic Party, she rose to prominence after winning the Democratic primary election for New York’s 14th congressional district in June 2018, defeating incumbent Joe Crowley. She then went on to win the general election in November 2018, becoming the youngest woman ever to serve in the United States Congress.

Ocasio-Cortez is known for her progressive policies and advocacy for issues such as Medicare for All, the Green New Deal, a $15 minimum wage, and tuition-free public college. She has been a vocal critic of income inequality, corporate influence in politics, and the fossil fuel industry.

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Kochiyama’s activism was broad-ranging, but she is perhaps most well-known for her involvement in the civil rights movement, particularly her support for African American and Asian American causes. She became friends with Malcolm X and was present at the Audubon Ballroom when he was assassinated in 1965. This event had a profound impact on her activism, leading her to further engage in civil rights work.

Throughout her life, Kochiyama fought against racism, imperialism, and discrimination. She was involved in movements advocating for reparations for Japanese Americans who were interned during World War II, as she herself was interned with her family in a camp in Arkansas during the war. Kochiyama also supported Puerto Rican independence, Palestinian rights, and various other causes.

Her activism extended beyond protests and demonstrations; she was known for her commitment to community organizing, education, and solidarity work. Kochiyama’s legacy continues to inspire activists fighting for social justice and equality.

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In 2018, she made history by becoming one of the first two Native American women elected to the United States Congress, alongside Sharice Davids of Kansas.

Haaland represents New Mexico’s 1st congressional district, which includes most of Albuquerque, the state’s largest city. She has a background in activism and community organizing, with a focus on environmental and Native American rights issues.

Before her political career, Haaland served as the chairwoman of the New Mexico Democratic Party from 2015 to 2017. During her time in Congress, she has been a vocal advocate for progressive policies, including environmental protection, renewable energy development, and healthcare reform.

In 2021, Haaland was nominated by President Joe Biden to serve as the Secretary of the Interior, making her the first Native American to hold a cabinet position in U.S. history. Her nomination was confirmed by the Senate on March 15, 2021, and she assumed office shortly thereafter.

As Secretary of the Interior, Haaland oversees the management and conservation of federal lands and natural resources, as well as the federal government’s relationship with Native American tribes. Her appointment has been widely celebrated as a historic milestone for Indigenous representation in the federal government.