Silenced Voices, Hidden Truths: Venezuelan journalists share their story

The School of Journalism and Media recently hosted Venezuelan journalists Jose Carroz and Lorena Criollo for a discussion about the challenges of press freedom and the dangers journalists face under authoritarian regimes.

Carroz and Criollo, who were forced to flee Venezuela to the United States due to threats and persecution linked to their reporting, shared their stories of fear and resilience with students, faculty and the broader community. They expressed the importance of journalism and freedom of speech, particularly in oppressive environments like Venezuela, where the press has been severely restricted under a dictatorship.

Speaking through a translator, Carroz and Criollo reflected on their personal journeys from being influential journalistic voices in Venezuela’s media to becoming exiled advocates for press freedom. They discussed the deteriorating state of journalism in Venezuela, where censorship, violence and government control over the media have intensified in recent years. 

The journalists also emphasized how important it is to protect the rights of journalists everywhere, especially in countries where the press is under attack.

“Migration has brought us challenges and opportunities,” Carroz said. “We not only left our country but our family, friends, home. The United States has been generous to us because it has welcomed us, and we will always be grateful for allowing us to be here. We thank the university that has given our children the opportunity to study. We are grateful for this meeting today because we want this informative message to enrich your knowledge.” 

The couple’s daughter, Sofia, is a sophomore majoring in journalism, and their son, Javier, graduated in 2024 with a degree in political science. 

View a recording of the event here.