Maxyori Araque is the proud owner of TekeGourmet, a cozy Burnaby eatery serving up authentic Venezuelan dishes.
Araque’s journey from Caracas to British Columbia in 2012 has been a rollercoaster of emotions. Over the weekend, her conversations with family back home were filled with joy and relief.
Speaking to CityNews, Araque shared, “I spoke with my family, and they are overjoyed.”
The local Venezuelan community in Burnaby is experiencing a mix of emotions following the news of the United States capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife after a series of airstrikes.
Araque explains that these reactions are deeply rooted in years of unrest and oppression. “Nicolás Maduro’s rule has been marked by cruelty from the start, with people, including children, protesting against his regime,” she emphasized.
Her daughter, Maria Suzin, weighs in on the recent events, highlighting the internal debate among Venezuelans. “Negotiating with the U.S. seems more viable than dealing with a repressive dictatorship that has silenced and tortured us for so long,” Suzin remarked.
For many Venezuelans, the current situation poses a significant dilemma. Suzin expresses, “If it comes down to a choice between oil and freedom, we will always choose freedom.”
She stresses the importance of respecting Venezuelan perspectives on the matter. “It’s crucial that we are given the space to voice our opinions and feelings without interference,” Suzin added.
Adriana Peña, a Venezuelan-Canadian residing on Vancouver Island, shares her elation at the news. Having experienced years of turmoil in Venezuela, Peña is hopeful for a positive shift. “It’s been a tumultuous journey, and I never thought this day would come. I’m happy for my loved ones in Venezuela,” she reflected.
Despite the optimism, concerns linger about the uncertain future. Peña acknowledges the ambiguity, stating, “While there are uncertainties about the new regime, anything is a step up from the past.”
Community advocates stress that any potential change will be gradual. Meriely Arias from the Canadian Venezuelan Society of B.C. points out, “This is just the beginning of a long process towards building a stronger democracy in Venezuela.”
While many cautiously welcome the news, worries persist for families awaiting lasting improvements in Venezuela. However, amid the uncertainties, some are hopeful for a brighter tomorrow.
Peña optimistically shares, “Maybe one day, I’ll be able to safely return to my homeland and reunite with my family.”