The continuing drama of the protesters detained in Brasilia

A group of approximately 2,000 lawyers called on the Brazilian Bar Association (OAB) to denounce possible neglect at the Women’s Penitentiary of the Federal District (DF), in Brasília, where the demonstrators who participated in the protests at the Praça dos Três Poderes are being held.

The lawyers cite the “inhuman state” to which the prisoners are subjected “due to the lack of communication with their families and the lack of basic resources for feminine hygiene during the menstrual period since they are not receiving the minimum necessary items.

The defense reports that the prison cells are dirty and damp with menstrual blood, “with a strong stench,” due to the lack of delivery of hygienic kits.

The inmates are prevented from talking to their families.

According to the complaint, there is no daily exchange of underwear for clean clothes; daily exchange of absorbents; specific care for those who feel pain and cramps, which results in pronounced bleeding; hygiene material, including soap and shampoo; and daily change of clothes.

The lawyers ask that the president of the Federal Council of the OAB, Beto Simonetti, appear at the DF Women’s Penitentiary and adopt the necessary measures to maintain the inmates’ health.

This includes immediate permission for contact with family members, the distribution of hygiene kits, and interviews with physical, psychological, and social health professionals in the presence of family members and lawyers “to capture evidence and for future compensation.