KATY, Texas – A massive traffic jam along Westheimer Parkway in Katy did not divert traffic but rather attracted it Saturday afternoon.

Thousands of Venezuelans, including those with decades-long ties to the United States, took part in a global day of protest.

People are angry about the recent elections in Venezuela and the government of President Nicolás Maduro.

Maduro is viewed by many as a dictator and is believed to be refusing to acknowledge his defeat to Edmundo Gonzalez on July 28.

A rally began behind the Latin Market in Katy around 4 p.m., and similar protests took place in many cities both in the United States and other countries.

Thousands came and the stream of more demonstrators continued unabated.

Many Venezuelans who spoke to KPRC 2 Investigates’ Mario Diaz said the rally was about making Venezuela what it once was: a democracy.

They also said the reason so many Venezuelans are leaving their country and coming to the United States is because there is no future for Venezuela under Maduro.

There is a belief that with a democratically elected González, the country could be on the path to change.

Other countries, including the United States, say Maduro has lost, but the president does not accept his defeat.

One man said “Libertad for Venezuela,” or freedom for Venezuela. That is the hope they have for the future of their country. They believe that they, their compatriots and their families back home deserve something.