Residents of Brazil’s impoverished favelas have drawn striking comparisons between their struggles and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, expressing solidarity with Palestinians and calling for an end to violence. Activists and residents argue that the militarization, armed groups, and systemic repression experienced in both favelas and Gaza highlight the need for action and change.
In Rio de Janeiro, favela residents have organized protests in support of Palestine since the Israel-Hamas war began. They emphasize the shared experiences of violence and the unfair treatment of marginalized populations in both regions. The parallels drawn include militarization, armed groups executing inhabitants, and feelings of illegitimacy and lack of belonging.
Residents of favelas, predominantly Black or mixed race, face high levels of police violence, with over 6,400 people killed by the police in Brazil last year, 83 percent of whom were Black. The violence is particularly acute in the tightly packed favelas, where residents endure systemic repression and exploitation.
The identification between favela residents and Palestinians has led to an explicit alignment with the Palestinian struggle in some social movements. Annual events like “Black July” bring together populations facing racism and militarization, with Palestinian rights featuring prominently. However, support for Palestine is not unanimous within favelas, with the rise of evangelical Christianity leading to a sympathetic view of Israel due to religious beliefs.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, known for his left-wing stance, has been critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza, denouncing the bloodshed as a genocide. Lula’s rhetoric aligns with other left-leaning Latin American leaders who have expressed solidarity with Palestine. By contrast, right-wing leaders tend to sympathize more openly with Israel and enjoy evangelical support.
The favela vote became key in the 2022 presidential race between Lula and former President Jair Bolsonaro. With approximately 16 million people living in favelas, their support can sway the outcome of elections. Lula held a lead among favela voters but faced criticism from some Palestinian rights supporters for not taking a stronger stance against Israel’s military offensive.
Brazil’s ties to Israel’s defense industry present a challenge for Lula’s position on Israel. Brazil has a history of purchasing weaponry and armoured vehicles from Israel, which have been used in favelas to combat gang violence. Critics argue that Brazil should end military relations with Israel to support the Palestinian cause fully.
Overall, the solidarity expressed by favela residents with the people of Gaza highlights the need for change and an end to violence. The ongoing conflict has sparked discussions about systemic repression, militarization, and the treatment of marginalized communities in both Brazil and Palestine. The favela vote and Brazil’s ties to Israel’s defense industry add complexity to the issue, with differing opinions within the country’s political landscape.
