MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla — Developments overnight in Venezuela sparked celebrations in South Florida, where hundreds of Venezuelans gathered Saturday to celebrate and check on loved ones following U.S. military action and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
The crowd formed outside El Arepazo, a popular Venezuelan cultural hub in Doral near Miami. People waving flags, playing music and embracing one another as news of the capture spread.
Many described the moment as historic.
“We have been waiting 26 years. I’m so thankful that God gave me the life to witness this. We are witnessing history today,” one women said.
Others said the gathering represented hope after what they call years of political turmoil in Venezuela.
“At the end of the day, we are here to celebrate freedom and liberty, and to get someone evil out of power,” another attendee said. “It’s beautiful to see.”
The rally drew people of all ages and backgrounds, with some participants noting international support beyond the Venezuelan community.
“It’s not just Venezuelans here, it’s not just Americans. It’s people all over the world coming together for liberation,” one women said.
Alongside the celebration, concern remained for family members still in Venezuela. Many attendees said their first reaction was to reach out to loved ones back home.
“It’s been a long time coming. Its been nearly 27 years. I grew up waiting for this moment. Of course we were nervous. The first thing we do is call them and make sure they are safe,” a man said.
While several said they were relieved to make contact and their loved ones were safe, uncertainty remains about conditions on the ground.
“They’re still nervous, people cannot express themselves fully yet. Part of the regime is still active in Venezuela.”
Community members said those calls provided some reassurance, even as questions linger about what comes next.
“There’s a little anxiety,” one man said, “but deep down, they’re happy things are moving in the right direction.”
South Florida Venezuelans react to Maduro capture. (WPEC){ }
Many at the rally said they believe this moment marks only the beginning, but one they have waited years to see.
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