Vision for Transformation
In a momentous event today, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez reflected on the incredible journey of the Green New Deal. Introduced five years ago as a 10-year vision for social and ecological transformation, the Green New Deal aimed to save our planet from the climate crisis.
Overcoming Doubters
Ocasio-Cortez acknowledged the initial skepticism and criticism faced by the Green New Deal. Detractors dismissed it as an impossible dream, impractical, and not serious enough. However, today she proudly declares that they were wrong. Over the past five years, significant progress has been made in addressing the climate crisis and creating millions of jobs. This progress was made possible by a diverse coalition of individuals dedicated to a better future.
Legislative Victories
Ocasio-Cortez emphasized that the Green New Deal paved the way for substantial legislation, including the Inflation Reduction Act signed into law by President Biden in August 2022. This groundbreaking climate package channels billions of dollars into green energy programs. Additionally, the American Rescue Plan Act and the also drew inspiration from the Green New Deal, furthering its impact.
Transforming Society and Economy
Inspired by the success of the past five years, Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Ed Markey highlighted the need for even more ambitious steps towards rebuilding public services, supporting union and clean economy workers, and phasing out fossil fuels. They emphasized the importance of holding Big Oil and Big Gas accountable for their actions. Together, they expressed unwavering determination to continue fighting for a transformed society and economy.
Progress and Commitment
With the release of their report titled “Five Years of the Green New Deal,” Ocasio-Cortez and Markey outlined the numerous state and federal victories achieved with the support of the Green New Deal movement. They highlighted the changing public opinion, with more adults acknowledging the reality of global warming than ever before. The report also highlighted the decline of coal power production and the rise of renewable energy.
A Vision for the Future
The report concluded with a strong message: the key elements of a Green New Deal future must not be forgotten or left behind. In the next five years, the Green New Deal movement will continue fighting for intersectional victories, ensuring a better, sustainable future for all.
A Bold Initiative
Introduced in February 2019, the Green New Deal resolution quickly gained support from climate activists and a wide range of left-wing environmental and labor groups, as well as other Democrats. While the legislation’s 14 pages offer limited details on how it will achieve its ambitious greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals, it aims to end fossil fuel extraction and make massive investments in green energy alternatives. Analysts estimate that the provisions of the Green New Deal could cost up to $92.9 trillion.