Although hundreds of Venezuelans marched through the streets of Humboldt Park on July 28 to celebrate the beginning of a new era of freedom, they were left in shock after the election results took a surprising turn. Nicolás Maduro was declared president-elect, contrary to the optimism seen throughout the day in the country's streets.

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According to the National Electoral Council (CNE), Maduro secured the majority of the votes with 51.2 percent, while the opposition, led by Edmundo González with María Corina Machado, secured 44.2 percent of votes.

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Far from home, the Venezuelan community gathered to pray and protest decision on July 31 and August 5, 2024.