Latino actor Wilmer Valderrama, widely known for his roles in "That '70s Show" and "NCIS," has taken to Instagram to express his heartfelt concerns over the recent surge in violence in Venezuela following the government's reaction to adverse election results.
In a poignant video message delivered in both Spanish and English, Valderrama revealed his deep connection to his Venezuelan heritage and urged the international community to come together to support the country's children.
Wilmer Valderrama Venezuelan connection
Born in Miami to a Venezuelan father and a Colombian mother, Valderrama spent his formative years in Venezuela. "As a man who was raised in the small city of Acarigua, state Portuguesa, it saddens me deeply to remember a free Venezuela and now see its heart and culture imprisoned, and its people with their wings tied, unable to fly," he shared in his emotional plea. "I pray today for a free Venezuela once again, where all Venezuelans can show the world how truly magical the country is. I stand with Venezuela."
The actor's impassioned call to action comes amid widespread protests in the South American country, where Venezuelans have taken to the streets to reject the government's decision to ignore the results of the recent presidential elections, and to imprison and repress opposition leaders and citizens.
Valderrama's Instagram video quickly went viral, garnering support from fans and fellow celebrities. He joined a growing list of artists who have publicly voiced their concerns about the situation in Venezuela, including Jared Leto, Rubén Blades, Il Volo, Karol G, Luis Fonsi, Arcángel, Juanes, and Carlos Vives.
In addition to raising awareness, Valderrama provided a practical way for his followers to help. He shared a link to donate to Save the Children, an organization dedicated to providing aid to Venezuelan children, who are among the most vulnerable during this crisis.
"The children of Venezuela are suffering the most in this turmoil," Valderrama emphasized. "They need our help now more than ever."
"As a man who was raised in the small city of Acarigua, state Portuguesa, it saddens me deeply to remember a free Venezuela and now see its heart and culture imprisoned, and its people with their wings tied, unable to fly." - Wilmer Valderrama.
How are things developing in Venezuela
As the situation escalated, the Venezuelan government cracked down on protests with increasing violence. According to the Venezuelan Penal Forum, over 1,100 people, including 100 teenagers, have been detained, and the NGO Monitor de Víctimas reported 22 fatalities during the protests. The Maduro regime announced that it would built two jails for political prisoners.
Wilmer Valderrama's appeal highlights the dire need for international solidarity and support for the Venezuelan people, especially the children caught in the crossfire. His message serves as a reminder of the power of celebrity influence in raising awareness and mobilizing aid for those in need.
As he concluded in his video, "Together, we can help restore hope and freedom to Venezuela."
The actor's engagement with his heritage and advocacy for Venezuelan children underscore the ongoing crisis and the urgent need for global attention and intervention.
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