episode 139
One in 6 Million Refugees: A Venezuelan Story
with Anonymous
Introduction
Over 6 million Venezuelan refugees are currently seeking asylum around the world. In September, between 1400 and 1600 fled PER DAY. Today we’ll hear the story of an anonymous guest, who gained asylum in the US 4 years ago. She is speaking anonymously because the government there is so repressive - so controlling (you’ll hear how she was threatened to lose all access to food if she didn’t vote for the incumbent) - that her family could be punished as retaliation for her words.
But why is she choosing to speak at all? First, because we have a very fundamental need to share our stories. And second, because our guest today wants to give a voice to these millions of refugees - to remind all of us where they came from, why they left, and what they’ve risked (everything) to leave. There are lessons for us in all of my guest’s story: political lessons in the way the current government came to power, then consolidated that power; lessons of compassion and empathy for individuals within a massive migration; lessons of courage, bravery, and sacrifice when we consider what so many risk for their families to have a better life, lessons of gratitude when we are reminded to savor the little moments (like sorting beans for her Storied Recipe) that we would miss if suddenly forced to leave our homes, and finally - lessons of friendship and kindness that we can learn from 3 immigrants that came together - one Venezuelan, one Nepalese, and one Iranian Jew - in a NYC apartment to help one another launch new lives.
This is one of the most important episodes I’ve ever released and today I’m asking you - specifically, you, anyone listening - to share this story. I think all of us believe that we should be a voice for the voiceless and today, as this guest literally cannot risk her family’s stability by sharing her story with a name attached, we can share it for her. Would you please think of someone right now and send this along to them? Thank you so much!!!
Highlights
- The three types of crises happening concurrently in Venezuela
- How this nightmare began with hope
- What happened in Venezuela when the private sector was dismantled
- How a simple decision spiraled to a point where she was forced to vote for the incumbent in order to eat
- The amazing story of how a Venezuelan, Iranian Jew, and Nepalese came to live and care for one together in a NYC apartment
- Repairing the country will take years
Listen Now
Also listen on:
This Episode's Storied Recipe
Recipe Shared by This Anonymous Guest
Pabellón Criollo
(Authentic Venezuelan Rice & Beans)
This traditional Venezuelan dish is as hearty as it is delicious. White rice, black beans, and skirt steak are cooked slowly and seasoned well. Perfect for a crowd!
Pin This Episode
Related Episodes
Venezuelan Arepas Coming to Us From Holland with Yessica Duques
About The Storied
Recipe Podcast
How To Listen to The Storied Recipe Podcast
I am also a storytelling photographer celebrating food in extraordinary light
You can shop The Storied Recipe Print Shop (where every image tells a story) here.
Please Rate or Review The Podcast
The Storied Recipe is more than a podcast. It is a community of curious, thoughtful individuals that love food, culture, and people. I depend on the community for feedback and the growth of the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, would you please consider sending it to a friend or family member?
Also, every review helps new listeners find the podcast. They mean so, so much to me personally. With all the different devices and podcast players out there, it can be a little tricky to figure out how to figure out how to leave one. If you click on this link, it will automatically detect your device and show you how to easily leave a review!! Thanks so much! lovethepodcast.com/thestoriedrecipe.
The Storied Recipe Podcast
Get Recipe and Episode Updates Every Friday: Subscribe to the newsletter
Website: www.TheStoriedRecipe.com
The Storied Recipe on Instagram: @thestoriedrecipe.podcast
The Storied Recipe on Pinterest: @thestoriedrecipe.co
Would love to hear from you!