The President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, made a call on the Venezuelan people to strengthen national pride and reaffirm the values of Venezuelan identity. The exhort was made in response to cases of xenophobia affecting nationals abroad and media campaigns attempting to discredit the nation.
From the House-Museum of the Doctor of the Poor in La Pastora (Caracas), the Head of State stated that xenophobic demonstrations against Venezuelan citizens will meet their deserved rejection. The President emphasized that the recent canonization of José Gregorio Hernández and Carmen Rendiles represents a spiritual blessing that strengthens national identity.
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining positive feelings toward the Homeland, both from abroad as within the national territory. He emphasized that the mutual desire for well-being among Venezuelans constitutes the sure path to progress and overcoming difficulties.
He also highlighted the extraordinary character of the Venezuelan people, evidenced, in his view, by the recognition of saintly figures. He specifically highlighted the example of Mother Carmen Rendiles as a representation of the humble and kind essence of Venezuelan women.
In the context of the canonizations, the Head of State urged the population to put into practice the Christian values that characterized the new Venezuelan saints. The call seeks to inspire concrete actions that reflect the principles of solidarity and service to the community.