As a Puerto Rican born a U.S. citizen, I have been fortunate to grow up with the freedoms and opportunities that come with living in the United States. Sometimes, we take our liberty for granted and fail to appreciate the struggles faced by immigrants or those fighting for their freedom in other parts of the world. One such place is Venezuela, a country currently grappling with severe political and humanitarian crises.
My connection to Venezuela is personal; my husband, whom I have been with for fifteen years, was born in Caracas. His experience highlights the profound impact of Venezuela’s turmoil on individuals and families. After arriving in the U.S. with a visa at 17, my husband lost his papers and was unable to return home. Over the years, we faced countless challenges in trying to secure the necessary documents, only to encounter further delays and obstacles. Tragically, during this time, his mother, father, sister, and grandmother all passed away, and he never had the chance to see them again as an adult. Even now, despite being a U.S. citizen, returning to Venezuela remains fraught with difficulties due to ongoing bureaucratic hurdles and the country’s instability.
Venezuela’s crisis has been exacerbated by President Nicolás Maduro’s controversial re-election, which has been widely criticized for alleged electoral fraud, including vote tampering and suppression of opposition voices. This has deepened the mistrust and unrest among Venezuelans, compounding the nation’s suffering as economic instability and political repression persist. The humanitarian situation is dire, with hyperinflation, shortages of essential goods, and rampant corruption making daily life a struggle for millions. The ongoing conflict between the government and the opposition has further polarized the political landscape, worsening the hardships faced by ordinary citizens.
In the face of this crisis, international support is crucial. Here in the United States, we can help by standing in solidarity with Venezuelans, amplifying their voices, and supporting organizations that provide humanitarian aid directly to Venezuelan communities. Raising awareness about their plight through advocacy and sharing credible reports can foster a more informed and compassionate response.
An inspiring example of Venezuelan resilience is the story of the Llovera family, who moved to Berks County in 2017. Despite the challenges they faced, they have become successful business owners, and their children are thriving in the Oley Valley school district. Gerardo Llovera and his wife Edyi Henriquez, along with their children Enyer, Gerardo, and Megan, have exemplified the strength and perseverance of Venezuelan immigrants. Enyer was recently accepted to Temple University with scholarships, further showcasing the potential and success that can emerge from such difficult circumstances. Gerardo would like to thank his mother, Alicia Rios, for always supporting his dreams and he wishes many blessings and success for his little sister Karlen Henriquez.
By sharing this article and supporting Venezuelan immigrants, we can contribute to a broader movement for justice and relief. Let us acknowledge and applaud the resilience of those who come to the U.S. seeking freedom and a better life, while also standing in solidarity with those still struggling within Venezuela.
Rosa J. Parra
Founder & Editor
Palo Magazine
