For thousands of Venezuelan New Yorkers, the devastation caused by last month's earthquakes isn't just felt miles away—it's felt here at home.
Since news of the disaster broke, I've been immensely proud to see New Yorkers turn compassion into action. Today, I visited Lulla’s, a neighborhood restaurant that was transformed into a collection center for earthquake relief by owner Ivo Diaz. I joined volunteers packing donations like food, medicine, clothing, and even wheelchairs, that will support relief efforts on the ground in Venezuela.
If you're able, I encourage you to volunteer with Lulla’s to help provide critical support to those in need.
Happy Venezuelan Independence Day to everyone celebrating across New York City.
Today, we honor Venezuela's long struggle for self-determination, the generations of people who have carried that history with them to our city, and Venezuelans around the world who are still reckoning with the tragic aftermath of this devastating earthquake.
Our hearts are with our Venezuelan brothers and sisters during this moment of celebration and struggle.
��Feliz Día de la Independencia! 🇻🇪