WASHINGTON.- Some 44 organizations met on May 16 and 17 at the US Capitol headquarters in the first Summit of Venezuelan Organizations in the USin which they discussed the challenges of the diaspora of Venezuela and explore collaboration and advocacy mechanisms.
At the meeting, which took place in the Capitol facilities, bipartisan legislators announced that they are co-sponsors of several bills whose purpose is to “strengthen democracy in Venezuela,” as well as “adjust the immigration status of Venezuelans in the United States“.
Likewise, topics related to grants, fundraising and certifications were addressed “with the goal of equipping attendees with valuable resources and tools for their efforts.”
Likewise, the complex humanitarian crisis that has affected the South American country for several years due to the socialist policies of the Nicolás Maduro regime.
Among other topics, the current political challenges of Venezuelaand the situation of the thousands of Venezuelan refugees and migrants. According to UN figures, some 7.7 million Venezuelans have migrated in recent years due to the humanitarian, political and social crisis in the country.
“Without a doubt, the Venezuelan diaspora in the United States has emerged as a strong, united and supportive community that has transformed adversity into great opportunities. The recent forced and unexpected growth of the Venezuelan diaspora has led us to work through difficulties and take actions with limited resources where obstacles represent challenges to overcome. However, the strength of our people emanates in their community work to benefit each other. Our work, performance and social role are highlighted by our inclusive work of other sister communities,” the organizers said in a press release.
During the meeting, 18 Venezuelans who live in the United States and who have “actively contributed to the advancement of the country” were recognized.
Among them are Cristal Montañez Baylor, who is a prominent human rights activist, recognized for her philanthropic and humanitarian work, as well as for her dedication to the defense of democracy and the human and political rights of citizens. Currently, Ella Montañez is the International Coordinator of the Hope ForVenezuelan Refugees Project.
Additionally, the following were recognized:
- Dr. Saida Benzaquen, recognized by Castle Conolly as one of the best doctors in 2023
- Dr. Robert Cubeddu, World Renowned Cardiologist
- Shamaine Daniels, Concejala, Harrisburg, PA
- Marisol Diéguez, Community Leader, Founding President of the Humanitarian Aid Program to Venezuela (PAHPV)
- Dr. Eliot Friedman, Recognized by Castle Conolly as a Top Doctor in 2023
- Jorge Glem, Musician and composer, winner of the Latin Grammy
- Chef Enrique Limardo, Culinary Director of the Seven Reasons Group
- Alfonso López, Virginia House of Delegates
- Leopoldo Martínez – Nucete, Nominated for executive director of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), founder of IQ Latino
- Fernando Miralles-Wilhelm, President of the Center for Environmental Sciences at the University of Maryland
- Luis Moros, Advisor, philanthropist and education advocate
- Vladimiro Mujica, Professor of Chemistry at Arizona State University, pro-democracy activist
- Dr. Moisés Naim, Venezuelan journalist and writer
- Nancy Navarro, former Montgomery County Councilwoman, MD
- Franco Nazarian, Student at the University of Florida
- Luisana Pérez Hernández, Special Assistant to the President of the United States
- Dr. Daniel Salerno, Recognized by Castle Conolly as a Top Doctor in 2023
The meeting was organized by a committee made up of: Emilio Buitrago, William J. Díaz, Ana Gil-García, Ana Julia Jatar, Marcial Márquez, Romy Moreno, Maru Quintero, and Nerlitt Torres, and a group of volunteers.
Source: EDITORIAL / Press Release
