Palestinian flag flies from landmark bridge in Brazil in major act of solidarity

The Palestinian flag was displayed recently on the Hercílio Luz Bridge in Florianopolis, Santa Catarina in Brazil. The iconic bridge is a historic landmark of connection and unity, and was chosen specifically to be the site of a significant act international solidarity with the people of Palestine that resonated deeply with advocates of human rights, cultural understanding and justice.

The Hercílio Luz Bridge is the largest suspension bridge in Brazil, and has long been a symbol of connection between Florianopolis and the mainland. Its imposing structure represents unity, resilience and the power of bridging divides, qualities that align closely with the global struggle for justice and equality, especially in occupied Palestine.

By flying the Palestinian flag over this historic landmark in this way, the people of Santa Catarina delivered a strong message of support for the Palestinian people and their aspirations for freedom, dignity and self-determination. The act underscored the bridge’s role not just as a physical connector, but also as a platform for promoting shared values of solidarity and peace.

The display of the flag on the major tourist attraction was organised by the Frente Palestina Livre de Santa Catarina (Free Palestine Front of Santa Catarina), in collaboration with SINTESPE-SC (Union of Workers in the Public Service of Santa Catarina) and supported by SINTUFSC (Union of Workers of the Federal University of Santa Catarina), the Maruí student movement, and the Movimento Bem Viver.

The Frente Palestina Livre is a collective of independent activists from various organisations and groups united in solidarity with the Palestinian people. Their aim is to raise awareness about the ongoing genocide in Palestine and to demonstrate both to the people of the city and the people in Palestine that the struggle for Palestinian liberation resonates worldwide.

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“The Hercílio Luz Bridge is considered to be the postcard of the city of Florianopolis,” explained Brazilian activist and secretary of the Free Palestine Front of Santa Catarina, Mansour Salum Husein. “Located near the city centre, it is a high-traffic area for both cars and people, making it an ideal spot to attract the attention of the population.”

By carrying out this type of activity, he said, activists in Brazil believe that it is possible to bring visibility to the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. “We strive to humanise the Palestinian people by showcasing their cultural and civic side, beyond the suffering widely reported by the media. In this way, we help break the stigmas that portray the Palestinian people as either ‘victims of genocide’ or ‘supporters of extremist/terrorist groups’.”

Husein is the grandson of Palestinian refugees. “As such, I feel a permanent and lifelong commitment to the Palestinian cause, and neither sectarianism, prejudice nor political and Zionist persecution will stop us from engaging in the struggle for justice.”

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By raising the Palestinian flag on such a prominent landmark, he added, the activists draw attention to and acknowledge the Palestinian people’s rich heritage and their right to preserve their identity in the face of adversity. Florianopolis has thus provided a platform for recognising and celebrating Palestinian culture and history, while sending a clear message of alignment with the global movement advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people.

“It reflects the growing awareness and concern among communities worldwide about the struggles faced in Palestine, including the challenges of occupation and displacement,” said Husein. “Santa Catarina, for example, has often been at the forefront of humanitarian and social justice movements. The decision to raise the Palestinian flag over the Hercílio Luz Bridge aligns with the state’s values of inclusivity and global awareness. It reflects the region’s commitment to standing in solidarity with those who face oppression and advocating for peaceful resolutions to conflicts worldwide.”

There are numerous Palestinian and pro-Palestinian collectives in Brazil, often led by members of the Palestinian diaspora. Social movements, student associations, unions, progressive parties, and independent collectives in the country have been at the forefront of the effort to sever diplomatic, military, academic and economic ties with the Zionist entity.

“Actions like this can inspire individuals and organisations to take a stand on urgent global issues, highlighting the power of collective action. “And there will be many more activities in the future,” promised Husein. “We plan to hold additional flag-waving events at other tourist attractions in Florianopolis, along with further demonstrations.”

Moreover, there are plans to establish an Arab-Palestinian Cultural Centre, along with a Permanent Committee of Solidarity with the Palestinian People at the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC). A Centre for Studies of the Arab World has already been founded at the university.

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The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor.