AOC Makes Major Political Statement During Met Gala Debut
By Ryan Shepard
September 14, 2021
Coming back home to the streets of New York, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made a major political statement during her debut at the 2021 Met Gala. Accompanied by community changemaker Aurora James, Ocasio-Cortez donned a white gown designed by Brother Vellies that had the message, "Tax The Rich," wrapped around the back. Adding to the attention-grabbing dress, Ocasio-Cortez wore bright red shoes from Brother Vellies that had bright flowers dripping down the heel. Rounding out her outfit, she also brought a bag that read, "Tax The Rich."
After making their way down the red carpet, the Democratic congresswoman and community changemaker spoke to Keke Palmer about their joint effort, the 15% Pledge. Together, James and Ocasio-Cortez are encouraging major retailers to dedicate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned products. Adding to the conversation, Ocasio-Cortez and James explained what the importance of the congresswoman's attire was.
Hate the gala, not the gal. Well played @AOC. pic.twitter.com/l7Ipl3uey2
— francesca fiorentini (@franifio) September 14, 2021
“We can never get too comfortable in our seats at the table once they’ve been given,” James told Vogue's Red Carpet Correspondent Keke Palmer.
“We must always continue to push ourselves, push our colleagues, push the culture and push the country forward. Fashion is changing, America is changing. And as far as this theme goes, I think Alexandria and I are a great embodiment of the language fashion needs to consider adding to the general lexicon as we work towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and empowered future.”
The New York lawmaker was not the only one who made a major statement on the red carpet. English model Cara Delevigne wore a vest that reads, "Peg The Patriarchy."
“If someone doesn’t know what this means, you’re gonna have to look it up," Delevigne told Palmer.
“If someone doesn’t know what this means, you’re gonna have to look it up” — Cara Delevingne #MetGala https://t.co/SqQ0ozouxJ pic.twitter.com/xnJErbd6bl
— The Cut (@TheCut) September 14, 2021
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