Public Note #12 – Statement regarding the attack against the production company Porta dos Fundos

The Dom Paulo Evaristo Arns Commission for the Defense of Human Rights – the Arns Commission – goes public to express its repudiation of the attack against the production company responsible for the program Porta dos Fundos, which took place in the early hours of December 24, 2019. The episode is outrageous due to the type of violence used and causes deep concern since it is not an isolated event.

Recently in Brazil, we have seen the escalation of extremism and abominable conducts practiced by people or groups that seek to spread fear, impose their opinions through violence, divide people and, consequently, corrode our democracy by deteriorating our ability to live together in society.

In view of this scenario, we demand a rapid and thorough investigation of the case by the competent authorities, in order to hold those involved accountable. We understand that clarification is essential to curb new acts and prevent them from gaining an air of normality. This process demands transparency, rigor, and promptness.

Brazilian society awaits clarification of what is yet another shameful episode that threatens democratic coexistence.

Finally, we express our solidarity with all the members of Porta dos Fundos. Freedom of expression is a non-negotiable right, an achievement of our young democracy, and we can never put it at risk.