AOC Holds 'Impromptu Session' for Constituents on Solar Panels at Rikers After Town Hall Event Overflows | Common Dream

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez joined other Queens Democrats Thursday in calling for installing solar panels on Rikers Island as part of an urban renewal plan that would find alternative uses for 413 acres after the infamous prison there is closed in 2026. 

"We can make sure this land is never used for any other atrocity again."
—NYC council member Costa Constantinides

Due in part to Ocasio-Cortez's popularity, the scheduled forum at the Jewish Center of Jackson Heights saw a line to get into the event that stretched around the block, resulting in a number of people being shut out of the event. Continue reading.