On September 21, 2025, large crowds gathered in Brazilian cities to rally against proposed laws that would protect former President Jair Bolsonaro and members of Congress from legal accountability.
Organized by labor unions, social groups, and left-leaning parties, the marches represent the biggest show of progressive support in recent years.
Backlash to Bolsonaro’s Conviction
The rallies come shortly after Bolsonaro’s recent guilty verdict for orchestrating a failed coup. His followers had invaded public offices after losing the 2022 vote.
Protesters condemned efforts to grant amnesty to those involved, including military figures—the first such accountability in Brazil’s coup-ridden past.
Personal Stories from the Streets
In Sao Paulo, Renato Fonseca, a 63-year-old marketer, wore a shirt saying “1964 Never Again,” recalling the coup that led to two decades of military rule.
“We nearly had another dictatorship under Bolsonaro,” he said. “I want our march to be bigger than the right-wing ones to influence lawmakers.”
Political Moves in Congress
A right-leaning bloc in Brazil’s lower chamber recently approved a fast-tracked measure that could ease punishments for Bolsonaro’s allies jailed for the 2023 building occupations.
They also backed a change allowing Congress to halt probes against its own members.
Lula’s Call for Focus on People
President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva posted online, praising the turnout.
“These actions prove Brazilians reject forgiveness for crimes.
Lawmakers should prioritize public welfare,” he wrote, posting photos from events nationwide.
Huge Crowds in Sao Paulo
Around 40,000 people packed Avenida Paulista in Sao Paulo, per University of Sao Paulo observers—the largest left-wing gathering since Lula’s 2022 victory celebration there.
Groups displayed a 15-meter flag reading “No Amnesty,” countering a prior pro-Bolsonaro event with an American flag honoring U.S. President Donald Trump’s meddling in Brazil’s courts.
Voices for Democracy
Scarlett Angelotti, a 62-year-old teacher in Sao Paulo, donned Brazil’s national soccer jersey, often used by Bolsonaro backers. “This land is for its people,” she declared.
“I’m here to protect our democracy from radicals and reject special treatment for those who tried to overthrow it.”
Rio’s Beachside Rally
In Rio de Janeiro, demonstrators lined Copacabana Beach, chanting “Lock up Bolsonaro” and “No forgiveness!”
The event ended with shows by iconic singers Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, and Chico Buarque, who were once banished during the old regime.
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