In Solidarity with Young Venezuelans

Roots of Hope stands in solidarity with the Venezuelan people who participated in the peaceful student-led marches across Venezuela on February 12 and continue to demonstrate publicly in support of a better future for their country.

Young Venezuelans mobilized together via social media to commemorate Youth Day and organized the largest protest to date against the Maduro government. Thousands of Venezuelans resumed their right to peaceful assembly as they took to the streets in more than 100 cities protesting the country’s economic problems, rising insecurity and lack of basic freedoms. Tragically, at least three Venezuelans needlessly died.

“Young people, be they in Venezuela, Cuba, or anywhere in the world, all seek the opportunity to build a better future for themselves and their countries,” said Raul Moas, Executive Director of Roots of Hope. “Today, Venezuelan youth are sending a strong message that are ready to build a free and prosperous Venezuela for all Venezuelans, and will not let violence and intimidation overcome their fundamental rights of free expression and assembly. We stand in solidarity with these brave young leaders.”

Roots of Hope calls for respect of freedom of speech and assembly in Venezuela, and the right for all people to speak openly about the future of where one’s country is headed without fear of government reprisal.

We ask that you join a mounting outpouring of support around the world by sharing photos and messages using the hashtag #ImYourVoiceVenezuela and #SOSVenezuela.