HOUSTON – Elio, a Venezuelan barber who arrived in Houston just five months ago, is one of the millions who left their homeland in search of a better life. For him, leaving Venezuela wasn’t just a choice—it was survival.
“In Venezuela, you don’t have freedom of expression,” Elio explained. “If you speak freely, you can be imprisoned or kidnapped. The regime is Maduro, and that’s why so many people want him out.”
Elio’s story reflects the hardships faced by countless Venezuelans. Despite living in a country rich in natural resources like oil and minerals, he described a daily struggle to find basic necessities such as food.
“Day by day, food wasn’t available,” Elio shared. “If my three-month-old son needed diapers, I couldn’t afford meat or chicken for the week. It was a constant battle.”
Now in Houston, Elio’s life has changed. “Here, you can find everything you need. Work gives you the means to survive and support your family,” he said, his words filled with hope for the future.
But for many Venezuelans, the fight for freedom back home continues. This week, Venezuelans in Houston will gather to voice their demands for change.
- Jan. 9: A mobilization for Venezuela’s freedom will take place at Buffalo Bayou Park (3600 Allen Parkway) at 3:00 PM.this event calls on the global Venezuelan community to unite.
- Jan. 10: A rally will be held at Houston City Hall (900 Bagby St) at 3:00 PM to mark the inauguration of Edmundo González Urrutia as president of Venezuela. This day is seen as a pivotal moment in the fight for the nation’s freedom.
“These two days represent the strength, unity, and hope of the Venezuelan people,” organizers said in a statement. “Venezuela needs every voice to rise together.”
Elio’s story and the upcoming events highlight the resilience of Venezuelans, both in Houston and beyond, as they continue to fight for a better future for themselves and their country.
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