Journey Through...: Good bye to Taguatinga!

The last day in Taguatinga was a day of good bye's and a manifestation (or what we call protests)! Monday did not go as planned, but I did get to witness a historical event in Taguatinga. Throughout my time in Brazil the country has been in the middle of various manifestations. The people in Brazil have decided to stand up for what they believe in. Many people are upset with the fact that so much money and attention are being diverted to the World Cup, Confederation Cup and soccer in general, when the people would prefer the money is spent on education, health care and public transportation systems. Additionally, many do not want a current bill PE37 to pass in Congress that would allow politicians who have been found corrupt to not receive a consequence. This particular manifestation was primarily students.

Isabelle's students left school around 5:45pm, but we were unable to leave until 8pm or so. The protesters were walking in the streets and roads were being closed by the police. At one point there were loud noises inside the staff lounge were we were waiting for traffic to improve. Outside the protesters were walking in the streets next to the school with the police following. We were safe inside as the school is surrounded by concrete walls and gates, but then we had to wait longer. Also, near my hotel was lots of traffic and police presence, so I was not being brought there until Isabel and I knew it was safe.

I am curious to see what happens after the Confederations Cup, will the manifestations continue or will the movement end as soccer no longer is the main focus in the country?

The Brazil soccer team becomes such a priority that schools will close early and businesses close when the team plays! Many of the educators my colleagues and I spoke with do not seem interested in soccer and would rather schools not be closed.

These are photos that appeared on an online news feed, so I can not take credit for them.