Women leaders from Venezuela and Nicaragua convened in New York City to discuss U.S. imperialism, showcasing advancements in women’s rights and highlighting issues such as illegal deportations of migrants. The meeting also addressed economic sanctions and emphasized solidarity among women globally. Leaders from both countries detailed their ongoing efforts to improve gender equality and the impacts of U.S. policies on their societies.
On March 20, women leaders from Venezuela and Nicaragua participated in a discussion with U.S. anti-imperialist activists at the Workers World Party office in New York City. This gathering coincided with the women’s organizations meetings at the United Nations, emphasizing the ongoing resistance of both countries to U.S. imperialist pressures under the Trump administration and highlighting advancements made by women in these societies.
The meeting addressed recent issues, such as the Trump administration’s illegal deportations of Venezuelan migrants in the U.S. and the Bolivarian government’s commitment to support returning migrants. Given the scarcity of discussions between U.S.-based activists and representatives from these nations, the Workers World Party promptly published a video of the event on their YouTube channel.
Asia Villegas, Deputy of the Venezuelan National Assembly, opened the meeting by denouncing Trump’s aggressive actions, pointing to unilateral coercive measures, or sanctions, imposed on Venezuela that have led to significant economic losses. She emphasized that these sanctions affect 30 countries and nearly 28% of the global population, resulting in detrimental impacts on women, who primarily bear the burden of caregiving and access to essential resources.
Villegas condemned the Trump administration for unjustly seizing Venezuelan migrants under false claims and deporting them without due process, calling it economic warfare that led many to leave Venezuela initially. She criticized the withdrawal of Temporary Protected Status, describing it as a betrayal by the U.S. government.
Highlighting Venezuela’s cultural diversity, Villegas asserted, “We are not criminals, and we are not enemies of the people of the United States,” attributing the country’s resilience against U.S. imperialism to its communal organizations. She expressed solidarity with women and girls in global contexts facing imperialist aggression, particularly Palestinians and Cubans.
The Nicaraguan speaker, Hazel Reyes, presented Nicaragua’s achievements in gender equality, citing the World Economic Forum survey ranking it first in Latin America and sixth worldwide. Reyes attributed this recognition to the Sandinista government’s efforts, which have faced persistent U.S. opposition since the 1979 revolution.
She noted that women now represent 52% of students in higher education and described policies ensuring gender representation across all levels of government. Additionally, Reyes discussed infrastructural improvements benefiting Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities in Nicaragua, showcasing government efforts to build vital highways and expand electricity access.
The meeting, co-chaired by Saher Al-Khabash and Mairead Skehan Gillis, included members from various coalitions who shared their activities before the guest speakers. The video of the meeting is available on the Workers World Party YouTube channel.
The meeting in New York City served as a platform for Venezuela and Nicaragua’s women leaders to address the challenges of U.S. imperialism and to showcase significant social advancements in their countries. Recognizing the impact of sanctions on gender disparity, they underscored the importance of solidarity among women globally. Both leaders highlighted their countries’ commitment to democracy and progress amid external pressures. The discussions not only raised awareness of the issues faced but also celebrated the achievements of women in these nations, marking a crucial moment for advocacy and support.
Original Source: www.workers.org
