Women leaders from Venezuela and Nicaragua shared insights on their countries’ resistance to U.S. imperialism and progress in gender equality during a meeting in NYC. The discussions spotlighted the adverse effects of sanctions and the deportation of Venezuelan migrants. The meeting aimed at fostering solidarity among women globally, reinforcing the struggles and achievements against ongoing imperialist pressures.
On March 20, women leaders from Venezuela and Nicaragua engaged in an open dialogue with anti-imperialist activists at the Workers World Party’s office in New York City. Their visit coincided with meetings at the United Nations aimed at discussing women’s issues. The discussion highlighted both nations’ resistance to U.S. imperialist actions and examined the advancements achieved by women in these societies. Recent developments regarding the U.S. deportation of Venezuelan migrants made the discourse particularly relevant, reflecting the Bolivarian government’s commitment to defending Venezuelans’ rights.
Deputy to the Venezuelan National Assembly Asia Villegas initiated the conversation, criticizing the sanctions imposed by the Trump administration as a form of external aggression. She stated that these unilateral measures have cost Venezuela approximately $650 billion since the 2000s, profoundly affecting its population, particularly women, who bear the primary caregiving responsibilities. Villegas emphasized that such coercive strategies are employed to destabilize opposition governments and are designed to impact 30 countries, affecting nearly 28% of the global population.
Villegas condemned the recent deportation of Venezuelan migrants, alleging that the U.S. government lacked evidence and due process in its actions. She articulated that economic warfare not only instigated mass migration but also misled migrants with promises of legal status and employment in the U.S. The withdrawal of the Temporary Protective Status for Venezuelans, she asserted, epitomized imperialist betrayal.
Addressing the diverse ethnic composition of Venezuela, 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 concluded with calls for solidarity with women affected by imperialism and violence globally, particularly voicing support for Palestinians and Cubans.
Hazel Reyes, Minister Counsellor from Nicaragua, highlighted her nation’s significant accomplishments in gender equality, ranking first in Latin America and sixth in the world, as reported by the World Economic Forum in 2024. Reyes acknowledged that many in the U.S. remain unaware of these achievements due to long-standing anti-Sandinista propaganda aimed at undermining Nicaragua since the Sandinista Revolution in 1979.
Reyes praised educational advancements under the Sandinista government, noting that women account for 52% of higher education enrollment. She also shared information about policies ensuring equal representation for women in government. In response to audience inquiries, she noted strides made by Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities, particularly regarding infrastructure and access to electricity, enhancing the quality of life across Nicaragua.
The meeting was co-chaired by Saher Al-Khabash and Mairead Skehan Gillis, both of whom attended celebrations in Nicaragua the previous summer. Guest speakers were assisted with translations by Gillis. Before the main presentations, representatives from local anti-war and mutual aid organizations shared insights on their ongoing initiatives.
The meeting held in New York City showcased the resilience and advancements of women in Venezuela and Nicaragua despite U.S. imperialism. Speakers articulated the need for solidarity among women globally, emphasizing the disproportionate impact of sanctions and economic strategies on vulnerable populations. The discussion not only highlighted significant strides in gender equality in Nicaragua but also brought attention to the injustices faced by Venezuelan migrants as a direct consequence of U.S. policies. This dialogue underscores the importance of awareness and action against imperialist aggression affecting countless lives.
Original Source: www.workers.org
