In Solidarity with Venezuela: Our Commitment in This Critical Moment  

As a transnational organization deeply rooted in the wellbeing of Latine communities across the Americas, we stand with Venezuelan communities in this moment of profound uncertainty. 

On January 3, after months of military buildup in the region, U.S. armed forces struck multiple targets across Venezuela and extracted President Nicolás Maduro and his wife from the country. This unilateral military action —carried out without Congressional authorization and in violation of international law and the UN Charter's protections of territorial integrity— marks a dangerous turning point for our hemisphere.

We know the story is complex. Venezuelan communities have been fighting for democracy for years, and their voices have been silenced by authoritarian rule. On July 28, 2024, they voted overwhelmingly for change, and that will was stolen from them. Any path forward must honor the democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people, center their leadership, and be grounded in respect for human rights and international law.

At this moment, we are navigating profound uncertainty. Polarization, disinformation, and violence —particularly on social media— continue to escalate. This makes it all more critical that we listen to and center the voices of Venezuelan communities. As Venezuelans, they share a common commitment: the pursuit of dignity and the common good for their country and its people. We believe in Venezuela's capacity to rebuild and reimagine a future grounded in human rights, democracy, and the dignity of all people.

How philanthropy shows up matters

This is the moment for the philanthropic sector to act with clarity and courage. Here's what that looks like:

• Resource and accompany Venezuelan civil society. The organizations protecting communities, documenting abuses, providing essential services, and defending democratic space are doing this work under enormous pressure. They need our solidarity and our support now.

• Center the voices and leadership of those most affected. Venezuelan communities must shape the decisions being made about their futures. Our job is to amplify their voices and ensure resources flow according to their priorities and vision.

• Protect and uplift human rights defenders. Activists and organizers are taking incredible risks. They need visibility, protection, and the backing of our international networks.

• Stay vigilant about regional impacts. What unfolds in Venezuela will touch communities across our hemisphere—through displacement, economic shifts, and challenges to the rules that keep us safe. 

At HIP, our work through the years has been centered in resourcing and accompanying el poder de nuestra gente, the power of our people. That work has taught us that real change happens when we center dignity, when we trust community leadership, and when we act in solidarity across borders.

We're calling on philanthropic partners throughout the Americas: stay alert, stay connected, stay in solidarity. Venezuelan communities deserve our unwavering support. Our shared future depends on it.