Venezuelan Conflicts Hits Home
Violence in Venezuela is hitting home in Kentucky.
Young Venezuelans say they’re unhappy with ravaged economy, shortages and rising crime. They’ve been clashing with security forces for days.
Three people are reported dead and dozens more injured in the fighting.
Protesters and police fought again Saturday night in Venezuela’s capital streets.
Sunday, demonstrators gathered in Lexington to spread the word about this violence.
About two dozen people were with posters and Venezuelan flags at the corner of Main Street and Limestone Ave.
“Just trying to get the word out,” said Bill Hendricks, whose wife is from Venezuela.
Since February 12th, people have been peacefully fighting for a better future in Venezuela.
“It is something that touches everyone’s way of life over there and it makes the things that we value as precious over here cheap over there and it’s just heart breaking,” said Hendricks.
“My family, they’re afraid,” said Zorimar Rojas, whose family is still in Venezuela. “They’re afraid to even go protest because they don’t know what’s going to happen next.”
In Lexington, it’s a peaceful protest for what they call hopeful change.
“We want them to know that they’re supported and loved and we’re concerned about them and we’re here with them.”
They’re hoping their voices will bring more attention to Venezuela.
“Just showing support for the horrible conditions the people we love are having to endure in Venezuela,” said Hendricks.
The US State Department has expressed concern about the protests in Venezuela. It has issued a warrant for the arrest of the opposition leader and condemning the violence. It’s also asking authorities to investigate and bring justice in the deaths of peaceful protestors.
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