See the Real Venezuela this August: Further Details of this Unique Opportunity!‏

An Invitation to See Venezuela’s Inspiring Social Progress Firsthand – Places Still Available On Solidarity Delegation in August (13-23) 2010!

VSC is writing to inform you that there are still places available to participate in this summer’s delegation, which comes at a crucial time just before national elections in September. If you would like to reserve a place or more information on this unique opportunity to experience the real Venezuela, please contact Matt Willgress in the VSC Office on 0207 420 8963 or info@venezuelasolidarity.co.uk as soon as possible.

Since our last communication, we have also been informed that the agenda will also include attending election campaign events of the United Socialist Party, further day trips to see Venezuela outside Caracas and a guided tour of new social programmes in a Caracas barrio by the leaders of a local Community Council, in addition to:

· Visits to the new schools, hospitals (including ALBA’s incredible Latin American Children’s Heart Hospital) and other social programmes which are transforming the lives of millions, in addition to the community councils which are enhancing democracy and people’s control of their own lives.

· A visit to the National Centre of the renowned Simon Bolivar Youth Orchestra, personally guided by El Sistema’s International Director.

· Meetings with the ministries for Education, the Environment and Labour.

· Workplace visits – including to enterprises managed by their workforce – and meetings with unions at a national conference, in addition to women’s organisations, Afro-Caribbean groups and other social movements.

· An opportunity to enjoy the unique culture Venezuela has to offer, including an optional history and sightseeing tour of Caracas and visit to the National Park.

What Previous Participants Have Said:

Mike Kirby, Regional Convenor. UNISON Scotland:
"It was a total inspiration to see with my own eyes the social changes that have been achieved in Venezuela in last 10 years."

David Lovelidge, Unite NEC:
“What we saw in Venezuela was that now, for the first time, Venezuela and its people are forging their place in world history - and for the right reasons. They are setting an example not only to Latin America, but the whole world: an example of a fairer and more just society.“

Further Details:
VSC’s August 2010 (August 13-23) delegation to Venezuela will be centred around Caracas and will be a unique opportunity to see at first hand Venezuela's social transformation. Pricing for the trip is currently £1600 (when sharing a room) and £2000 (for an individual room) including a return flight and other organisational costs. If you would like to reserve a place or more information, please contact Matt Willgress in the VSC Office on 0207 420 8963 or info@venezuelasolidarity.co.uk as soon as possible.

If you are unable to take part in August, you can sponsor one of the young trade unionists hoping to join the trip, circulate this message to others who may be interested or join a further general solidarity delegation in October – contact the office for further details.