Brazilian socialist councillor speaks in England and Wales
Manchester
“The people want FIFA-standard housing, FIFA-standard hospitals, FIFA-standard schools!”
Brazilian trade unionist and PSoL (Party of Socialism and Freedom). councillor Paulo Eduardo Gomes addressed a packed meeting of Socialist Party members and supporters in Manchester on 18 November.
Explaining how vast sums are being spent on Brazil hosting next year’s FIFA World Cup, while 45 million languish in dire poverty, Paulo also related how young people and workers are fighting back.
A colossal strike wave has swept Brazil following the successful mass protests against unaffordable public transport earlier this year.
“The young people and workers have taken to the streets, and now they know that they have the power to change the world,” said Paulo.
He concluded an inspiring meeting, which raised over £100 in the financial appeal, by saying: “For the young generation, and for future generations, we have to fight for a better world, and that means we are fighting now, together, in Brazil, and in Europe, and across the world.”
Hugh Caffrey
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Leeds
On 19 November, Leeds Met Socialist Students hosted a public meeting with Paulo, who is a councillor in the city of Niteroi near Rio.
Paulo is also involved in building PSoL. He has helped champion the interests of workers and youth in Niteroi, defending Occupy protesters who took over the council chamber for a month.
He also explained how he and fellow PSoL councillors publish their expenses online, much to the chagrin of the pro-business politicians.
Iain Dalton
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