This week, in What’s Happening in Brazil, we take a look at how holiday celebrations are directly making the covid-19 pandemic worse. Throughout the country, countless parties that drew large gatherings of people who were not wearing masks, nor respecting social distancing rules took place. Health experts are warning of a new spike in coronavirus cases and deaths as a result of such events.
In our Story of the Week segment, we investigate how one of the worlds most toxic substances, asbestos, is actively being mined in the state of Minas Gerais, even though it’s use has been banned by the Brazilian Supreme Court. Taking advantage of a loophole in state legislation, mining company Sama continues to extract the mineral as their employees die from asbestos poisoning.
In our Culture Talk segment we will meet a samba artist who despite the pandemic, is keeping this ancestral tradition alive through her daily live streams. A uniquely Brazilian musical style, samba has its roots in the Afro-Brazilian community. Being the kind of music that is historically played live all over the country - as well as being the driving force behind the world renown carnaval celebrations - samba is currently finding a home on the internet due to the outbreak.
Lastly, as is tradition on the show, we wrap things up with our Brazilianism segment, where we teach you a delicious local recipe, and showcase quality music from our country. Enjoy!
All What's Happening in Brazil episodes are available at Brasil de Fato's YouTube channel, where you'll also find a special English-content playlist.
Partners who wish to include a longer version of the show in their schedule may contact our international team at [email protected] or send a WhatsApp message to +55 11 993 055 156.
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Edited by: Ítalo Piva
