Venezuela has been struck with immense corruption that has led the country into devastating conditions; the citizens fight everyday in order to win their freedom back.
After dying from cancer, Hugo Chavez left the country in complete destruction and made sure Nicolás Maduro carried on his power over the government, military, and its people.
Venezuela used to be known as the richest country in South America due to its extremely successful petroleum industry, along with its beautiful, natural features. The government was organized with two political parties; there were fair laws and normal crime rates that people were aware of. It was an amazing country to explore and experience the diversity it had to offer.
“Everywhere I went no matter if it was the beach, the mountains or just school, I always found a compassionate, friendly person to talk to,” senior Valery Rodriguez said.

Unfortunately, times have changed and the corruption in Venezuela has developed which has resulted in horrendous protesting, harsh living conditions, and lack of food supply around the country especially in its capital, Caracas.
“People go days, even weeks without food,” junior Howard Alvarado said.

Being able to travel to Venezuela has turned more punishing than rewarding with the amount of violence and rage crowding the streets.

“Passing by the rallies you had to chant along in order to prevent getting assaulted, attacked, or possibly worse,” junior Veronica Arraiz said.
Chavez and Maduro have left the country in horrible, devastating conditions, so damaged that it will take years and years to recover on its own. Recently, according to CNBC, mass protests commenced when Maduro stopped a referendum that could have allowed his legal removal from power. If passed Venezuela could have the opportunity to elect a new president; if not, Maduro could still be in power until 2019.

“I see a certain sadness on their faces, even anxiety, and the urge to be free,” Rodriguez said.
All Venezuelans can do at this point is continue to fight for their freedom as well as have faith in each other and work together to overcome the distasteful situation they are currently experiencing.

“It’s a beautiful country in the hands of the wrong people,” Arraiz said.