60 years since the 1964 coup in Brazil | Interview with Izabel Priscila Pimentel da Silva

Abstract

Izabel Priscila Pimentel da Silva, a professor at UERJ and a specialist in the history of revolutionary left-wing movements and political repression, reflects on the 60th anniversary of the 1964 coup. She highlights the importance of these events to commemorate the authoritarian past and the need to discuss the victims of the dictatorship, which go beyond activists, affecting groups such as workers, indigenous people, and the LGBTQIA+ population. The historian criticizes the dismantling of memory and transitional justice policies, especially during the governments of Michel Temer and Jair Bolsonaro, which promoted denialism and defense of the dictatorship. She emphasizes that, despite historic advances, such as the creation of the National Truth Commission, the recommendations of this commission were not implemented and the current government avoided officially marking the date of the coup. Izabel concludes that the construction of collective memories critical of the dictatorship is essential to strengthen democracy and confront discourses that legitimize authoritarianism. She emphasizes the role of historians in the fight for Memory, Truth and Justice, stating that it is crucial not to forget the legacy of the dictatorship to prevent similar events from happening again.