The first round of the bus-fare protests called by São Paulo’s Free Pass Movement were met with bursts of rubber bullets and clouds of tear gas. Images from the protest were broadcasted live by mainstream media. Countless photos, videos, and reports of the police’s violent attacks circulated on the internet and social media, creating an atmosphere of shock and indignation.
What protesters perceived as blatant violence on the part of the state created a rare consensus between left-wing and right-wing parties. Political speeches began to support the demonstrations. The word “vandalism” disappeared from various media outlets as well as ultra-reactionary Facebook pages. In addition, pro-government blogs that had formerly condemned the Free Pass Movement became in favor of those who had taken to the streets.
Yet, after fare prices dropped and police forces were withdrawn, other peculiar forms of violence began to escalate.
If you missed part one, watch it here:
Special thanks to Antônio Jordão and TVT.
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