In its latest Amnesty Urgent Action Letter, the Thompson Rivers University Students’ Union called on Nicolás Maduro, the President of the Republic of Venezuela, to immediately release detained activists Martha Lia Grajales, Eduardo Torres, Javier Tarazona, Rocio San Miguel, Carlos Julio Rojas, Kennedy Tejeda, and all others unjustly imprisoned in Venezuela for exercising their right to peaceful protest.
“Writing this letter was a way for us to stand with those risking everything to speak out against injustice,” said Samantha Jo Haire, TRUSU Equity Executive Member. “No one should be punished or disappeared simply for demanding a better future for their country.”
In recent years, Venezuelan authorities have intensified their crackdown on dissent, targeting journalists, human rights defenders, and opposition members. Many have been subjected to arbitrary arrest, incommunicado detention, and even torture. Families of the disappeared remain without answers, while political prisoners face inhumane conditions and denial of medical care. The letter calls for the immediate disclosure of the whereabouts of those forcibly disappeared and for all detainees to be granted their rights to life, physical integrity, and a fair trial.
The broader crisis has displaced more than 7.9 million Venezuelans; the largest migration in Latin America’s history. This mass exodus reflects a deeper pattern of systemic repression and economic collapse that has eroded fundamental freedoms. The targeting of activists is part of a broader effort to silence civil society, stifle protest, and maintain power through fear; violations that stand in direct opposition to Venezuela’s obligations under international human rights law.
“This issue reminds us that the right to protest and to be heard is universal,” said Haire. “We hope our voice adds to the growing global call for justice and accountability in Venezuela.”
The Union awaits a response from the President of the Republic of Venezuela.
For More Information
The Amnesty Urgent Actions Program allows TRUSU to take consistent solidarity action regarding international human rights injustices that matter to students. Click this link to see injustices we have addressed previously, and for further information about this issue or to see a copy of the letter, contact the Equity Coordinator here.