Public Note #25 – In solidarity and support to Fr. Júlio Lancellotti

The Dom Paulo Evaristo Arns Commission for the Defense of Human Rights – the Arns Commission – goes public to express solidarity with Fr. Júlio Lancellotti for the work he does in favor of the poorest, and to express its concern regarding the threats he has been repeatedly suffering.

For decades, Fr. Júlio has been offering his pastoral work to homeless people, facing problems that today challenge government officials and public administrators. Marginalized groups in the city of São Paulo have found in this man the possibility of a caring and humane reception, whether in the form of a coat, food, medicine, or a word of support.

Witnessed by so many human rights defenders, this work in favor of people's lives and dignity cannot be disqualified by hate speech. And, above all, the life and physical integrity of Fr. Julius cannot become a target for intolerant people and extremists.

Thus, we ask the security authorities of the state and municipality of São Paulo to ensure the protection of Fr. Júlio, whose personal efforts are being redoubled at this moment, in an attempt to minimize the effects of the pandemic on those who cannot protect themselves against it.