Brazil’s student activists, emerging from a history of resistance, organized protests against far-right policies under Jair Bolsonaro in 2019. Despite his defeat, the threat of Bolsonarismo and the rise of global far-right movements keep students vigilant. At recent national congresses, they strategized their continued fight against fascism, exploring diverse strategies while promoting collective values linked to anti-racism and climate justice.
In January 2019, Brazilian student activists reacted swiftly against far-right former president Jair Bolsonaro, leading the charge with the “Tsunami” protests in May 2019 to defend higher education from his proposed cuts. As Bolsonaro’s opponents regain some power, activist spirits remain high amid global far-right trends and low approval ratings for current president Lula. Ten days after Donald Trump’s second inauguration, students shifted their activism from the streets to the national congress, gathering at the Biennial of the National Student Union (UNE) and the CONEB, where thousands convened to strategize on political and student movements against the far right.
Brazil has a longstanding history of student resistance stretching back nearly a century, with the UNE formed in 1937. The organization has played a crucial role in nation-building and opposing military dictatorship since its inception. Following the military coup in 1964 that was supported by the U.S., the UNE became a target of state repression, facing violence, including the infamous case of student activist Edson Luis, whose murder galvanized significant protests. Such historical contexts have informed contemporary students’ understanding of their collective struggles against contemporary threats.
The recent high-profile gathering of nearly 10,000 students emphasized the urgent need to combat the far right and celebrate their historical resistance. During the event, students expressed their dissent against the military dictatorship’s legacy by chanting slogans demanding accountability for past torturers. The current environment remains tense, highlighted by the fallout from Bolsonaro’s attempted coup on January 8, 2022, and his ongoing criminal charges. Student leaders maintained a commitment to historical remembrance while demanding justice.
Despite a consensus on opposing a resurgent far-right threat, students exhibit diverse ideologies on fostering a unified left. The resulting political fragmentation reflects broader ideological divides among various student movements affiliated with Brazil’s political parties. Activists associated with aligned groups, like Juntos! and Fearless Youth, insist on a unified front against fascism, while some factions promote a more skeptical stance towards the Lula administration’s neoliberal tendencies, advocating for grassroots activism and structural change.
The collective struggle extends beyond Brazil, with students framing their activism as part of a larger, global battle against the far right. As they face domestic and international challenges, activists align their efforts with anti-racist, feminist, and ecologically sustainable agendas. Climate activism is especially prominent as students mobilize for the upcoming COP30 in the Amazon, addressing environmental concerns tied to decisions made by the Lula government related to oil drilling. Additionally, they voice opposition to global injustices, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and migration crises.
This renewed enthusiasm among Latin American students illustrates the persistent and evolving nature of collective resistance. Their approach combines public demonstrations with critical engagement in political discourse, emphasizing long-term organizational work. With leaders advocating for sustained activism, students echo a sentiment of strength and determination, knowing that their efforts will shape Brazil’s socio-political landscape moving forward.
Brazil’s student movement, with a rich history of resistance against far-right politics, continues to play a pivotal role in the current socio-political climate. This movement not only addresses local issues but also connects to broader global struggles against authoritarianism. While unity against the far right is a common goal, divisions in strategies and ideologies reflect diverse perspectives within the movement. The commitment of these students to anti-racism, feminism, and environmental justice highlights their multifaceted approach to activism, ensuring their resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.
Original Source: nacla.org
