Publicity Stunt Or Advocacy

This Sunday, on September 13th, the annual fundraising gala for the benefit of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York, otherwise known as the Met Gala, was held. The world’s best achievers in all spheres of music, film, Broadway and fashion attended the Gala dressed in stellar style on the red carpet.

After being invited, Representative Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, made an appearance at the event - with the message “TAX THE RICH” emboldened in red on the back of her white dress. Ranked as one of the most photographed events of the year, the extravaganza is known for its fashion risks. Even so, Cortez’s political statement sparked a lot of controversy.

The Gala’s theme for the year was “American Independence”, and Cortez was surrounded by some of the most powerful and influential people in the world. Advocating for the working class by wearing a bold message was an empowering move as it got many talking - and those at the gala thinking.

However, the controversy stirred by her message may end up overshadowing her intent. To get into the gala, it usually costs about $30,000 and $300,000 per table. Many called Cortez a hypocrite as they believed she had paid this much, all while wearing a “TAX THE RICH” dress that was believed to be an expensive piece. This was a false accusation as Cortez was invited to the event and invitees don’t pay for a ticket. Her dress was also rented from a sustainable, black, female owned designer named Aurora James.

Cortez’s message of taxing the rich is not a new one, as it has been discussed and talked about since 1913. The message fails to address the significant issues that would make the concept acceptable to the general populace.

Questions such as “Who qualifies as wealthy?”, “What would be an acceptable and reasonable tax rate?” “How will these funds be used for the benefit of those that need it and not go wasted?”, remain unanswered. Cortez seems to have the right motives, but the statement by itself only drew more attention to herself rather than the plight of those for whom she was advocating for.