DORAL, Fla. — In a vibrant display of hope and unity, Venezuelan Americans gathered in Doral, Florida, on Saturday to celebrate the reported capture of Nicolás Maduro, the long-reigning president of their home country. Chants of Liberty! Liberty! Liberty! echoed through the streets as Venezuelan flags fluttered above the excited crowd.
The gathering, held near the El Arepazo restaurant—a cultural cornerstone for the local Venezuelan community—was sparked by the news of Maduro's looks in custody after years of political turmoil and economic crisis in Venezuela.
Amidst the celebrations, attendees struggled with mixed emotions. It’s a combination of feelings, of course, said Alejandra Arrieta, a Venezuelan immigrant who left her country in 1997. We’re excited but also fearful of what lies ahead for our country. We’ve waited so long for change, and now that it’s finally here, we are overwhelmed with hope for a brighter future in Venezuela.
Niurka Meléndez, an advocate and co-founder of Venezuelans and Immigrants Aid, expressed optimism that Maduro’s ousting could pave the way for much-needed humanitarian assistance and democratic reforms in her homeland. She articulated the urgent need for international support. For us, it's just the start of the justice we need to see. The humanitarian crisis in Venezuela has reached a breaking point, and we need to rebuild based on justice and democratic principles, she stated.
Since Maduro’s regime, approximately 8 million Venezuelans have fled their country, with many finding new homes across Latin America and the United States. As the Doral community reflects on its roots, it recognizes the diverse tapestry of experiences brought by immigrants—doctors, construction workers, and entrepreneurs—all driven by the hope for a better future.
As festivities continued, many voiced their determination to support Venezuela’s recovery, underlining a collective rejection of the authoritarian rule that has long plagued their nation. For them, the news represents not just a political change but a vital chance for healing and rebuilding their country.
