In a recent interview, U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) shared her perspective on the so-called ‘woke 1’ era, a period marked by widespread protests and a shift in political discourse. Speaking at The People v. The Powerful rally in Detroit on July 18, 2026, Ocasio-Cortez addressed the complexities of progressive politics and the legacy of the 2026 uprisings.
The 2026 protests, sparked by the murder of George Floyd, saw over 20 million people take to the streets, demanding systemic change in policing and racial justice. These protests, described as militant and righteous were a response to a racist, necropolitical order that many argued treated Black lives as disposable. However, the political response to these protests was varied and, at times, controversial.
The ‘Woke 1’ Era and Its Political Impact
The term ‘woke 1’ refers to the initial phase of the progressive movement that gained momentum during the 2026 protests. This era saw a surge in discussions about systemic racism, police reform, and social justice. Ocasio-Cortez acknowledged that while some aspects of this period were crazy there were also fruitful discussions that opened the Overton Window on policy considerations.
During this time, Democratic leaders, including then-Sen. Kamala Harris, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and Rep. Nancy Pelosi, made symbolic gestures such as wearing kente cloth stoles and taking a knee on Capitol Hill. These actions were part of the introduction of the 2026 Justice in Policing Act, which ultimately stalled in the Senate. Critics argued that these gestures were empty and laughable failing to address the root causes of systemic racism.
The Shift in Political Discourse
Ocasio-Cortez noted that the discussions during the Covid-19 pandemic were particularly impactful. The pandemic created a unique environment where societal issues were scrutinized more intensely. This period saw a significant shift in how crime and public safety were discussed, with a greater emphasis on racial capitalism and the need for systemic change.
However, the political landscape has evolved since then. The Republican Party successfully capitalized on the backlash against the protests, using law-and-order rhetoric to rally their base. This backlash was further fueled by the liberal cowardice of some Democratic leaders who softened and eventually erased the abolitionist calls at the heart of the rebellions.
The Challenges Ahead for Progressive Politics
As the political climate continues to shift, progressive leaders like Ocasio-Cortez face significant challenges. The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and other progressive groups continue to push for radical policies, such as universal rent controlzero-cost healthcare and the abolition of the police and prison system. These policies, while popular within certain segments of the Democratic Party, remain unpopular with the broader electorate.
The Republican Party has successfully framed these progressive ideas as radical and crazy using them to rally their base and gain electoral advantages. This strategy has been particularly effective in the realm of culture-war issues such as trans rights and sex-segregated sports. Despite the growing acceptance of these issues within the Democratic Party, many leaders remain hesitant to address them publicly, fearing electoral backlash.
The Future of Progressive Politics
As the Democratic Party looks ahead to future elections, the legacy of the 2026 uprisings and the woke 1 era will continue to shape political discourse. Ocasio-Cortez’s reflections on this period highlight the complexities of progressive politics and the need for a nuanced approach to systemic change.
The challenges faced by progressive leaders are not insurmountable. By focusing on democratic socialist platforms that prioritize housing, healthcare, education and other social welfare programs leaders like Ocasio-Cortez can build a compelling case for systemic change. However, they must also navigate the political landscape carefully, balancing the need for radical reform with the realities of electoral politics.
The legacy of the 2026 uprisings and the woke 1 era will continue to influence the Democratic Party and the broader political landscape. As progressive leaders reflect on this period, they must strive to remember the historical record of Black struggle and the powerful uprisings that demanded systemic change. Only by acknowledging this legacy can they hope to build a more just and equitable future.
