Venezuela, once a land of promise and beauty, has undergone a heartbreaking transformation. I grew up in a country where political stability was the norm and hope for the future was abundant. However, the Venezuela I knew no longer exists. As the political climate deteriorated, so too did the lives of its people. The once vibrant nation I loved is now a shadow of its former self.

The gradual erosion of democratic institutions and the rise of authoritarianism created a climate of fear and uncertainty. Basic human rights were compromised, and the economy crumbled. The Venezuela I once called home has become a place where dreams are deferred, and aspirations are stifled. In this bleak landscape, the simple act of voting, a fundamental right in a democratic society, became a distant memory.

When I immigrated to the United States at age 23, I carried with me the beautiful memories of my great homeland. Building a new life here in the United States was arduous, but the promise of freedom and opportunity ignited a fire within me. Years of hard work and perseverance culminated in the greatest achievement of my life: becoming an American citizen.

Citizenship was not just a legal status; it was a profound connection to a nation built on the principles of liberty, equality and justice. It was a tangible manifestation of the American Dream, a testament to the belief that with determination, anything is possible. With this newfound identity came a deep sense of responsibility. To be a citizen is to participate, to engage, to contribute. And voting is the most fundamental expression of this civic duty.

Every election is a chance to shape the future, to leave a legacy for my children and family. It is a privilege I hold dear, a right I will never take for granted. In the quiet sanctity of the voting booth, I am not just casting a ballot; I am honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for this democracy. I am standing on the shoulders of giants, ensuring that their legacy lives on.

To vote is to hope. It is to believe in the power of collective action. It is to affirm that my voice, and the voices of millions like me, matter. As an American, I am part of something extraordinary, a nation where the people are the ultimate authority. And with every vote, I reaffirm my commitment to this beautiful experiment in democracy.

Maria Platz lives in Waterford. She came to America from Venezuela in 1974 and became a U.S. citizen in 1980. She is retired after working for the state Department of Labor and Lawrence + Memorial Hospital for 37 years.