Empowering the Next Generation of Anti-Communists: Democracy Youth Forum of the Americas

The Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation (VOC) is continually inspired by the determination of young leaders across the Americas who stand against communism. It was with great pride that our team participated in and supported civil society activities during the first week of December in the Dominican Republic. This forum served as a vital component of broader efforts to amplify voices for freedom in preparation for the forthcoming Summit of the Americas.

The forum brought together emerging leaders and activists to discuss pressing challenges facing Latin America, from political persecution to the erosion of democratic institutions. Drawing on VOC’s mission to educate about the horrors of communism and support those fighting for liberty, the event focused on youth empowerment, geopolitical challenges, and strategic planning for a freer future. It provided a collaborative space for dialogue, workshops, and networking, fostering alliances that will endure beyond any single gathering.

A highlight was a panel on political prisoners, featuring courageous former political prisoners from Cuba and Venezuela. This session shone a light on the human cost of communism, sharing harrowing stories of those imprisoned for their beliefs in countries like Cuba and Venezuela. It aligned perfectly with VOC’s ongoing work to support political prisoners, reminding us that freedom is not abstract but a daily struggle.

A pivotal moment came with the workshop on the political thought of Oswaldo Payá, led by VOC’s Fellow Rosa María Payá, Omar Vento, and Orlando Gutierrez. As the daughter of the legendary Cuban dissident, Rosa María brought Oswaldo’s vision of peaceful, democratic change to life, inspiring attendees to apply his principles in their own contexts. This session resonated deeply with VOC’s commitment to honoring anticommunist heroes and educating the next generation about their legacies.

The forum concluded with a collaborative networking on plans to expand our networks, support political prisoners, and counter communist influences across the hemisphere.

In the shadow of the Summit of the Americas, these civil society activities demonstrated the power of youth-driven initiatives to challenge authoritarianism and build resilient democracies. At VOC, we remain steadfast in our support for such forums, as they directly advance our programs aiding human rights defenders in Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and beyond.