TAMPA, Fla. — Dozens of members with the Tampa Bay branch of the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL) showed up on the steps of Tampa City Hall on Saturday to protest the U.S. strike in Venezuela.
What You Need To Know
A protest was organized by the Tampa Bay branch of the Party for Socialism and Liberation against the U.S. strike in Venezuela
It was held on the steps of Tampa City Hall on Saturday
Organizers said the protest is part of an antiwar movement, which happened in 75 cities across the nation
Another protest will take place on Sunday in St. Petersburg
“We know that this is not the end. This is the beginning of something that has the potential to get very, very ugly,” said organizer Aliabdel-Quadar. “We stand against US militarism in the region.”
Organizers said the Tampa protest is part of an antiwar movement that happened in 75 cities across the nation.
“We’re completely opposed to money being spent on bombing other countries,” said Aliabdel-Quadar. “When money needs to be spent here in this country, on health care, on education, on housing, on social programs.”
Members carried signs that read, “NO BLOOD FOR OIL.” Monica “Franki” Diaz said they’re opposed to the U.S. taking control of the oil in Venezuela.
“This is Venezuelan oil, and it should be for the Venezuelan people. The money should be used however they see fit,” she said. “I don’t think we should be controlling that in any way.”
Member Jack Hummell said it should be up to the Venezuelan people to take their country back.
“I think Venezuelans should be able to choose their own destiny or self-determination,” he said. “I think they have the freedom to choose for themselves. I don’t think it’s the U.S.’ business to choose for them.”
Organizers said another protest will take place on Sunday in St. Petersburg.