Dolores Huerta: I’m in ‘awe’ of Aparicio, Ocasio-Cortez

SANTA FE, N.M. – Civil rights leader Dolores Huerta says she’s in “awe” of Mexican actress Yalitza Aparicio and freshman Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez because of conversations they are sparking in the U.S.

The 88-year-old advocate told The Associated Press on Wednesday she’s thrilled that Aparicio was the first Mexican indigenous woman nominated for best-supporting actress at the Oscars. However, Huerta says she’s especially happy Aparicio’s role as a maid in “Roma” is drawing attention to exploited domestic workers.

Huerta says she’s been impressed with Ocasio-Cortez for pushing issues around climate change and fair wages and that Ocasio-Cortez isn’t afraid to fight for social justice despite the criticism she has faced.

The New Mexico-born, California-raised Huerta was honoured Wednesday by the New Mexico Legislature for her work as a union and civil rights activist.