The Superior Tribunal de Justiça (STJ) made headlines recently by absolving Brazilian television presenter Marcão do Povo from charges of racial slur against singer Ludmilla. The ruling, delivered on December 19, 2024, has ignited intense debate and backlash across social media platforms, especially due to the historic nature of the claims and the societal ramifications of the decision.
Marcão do Povo, whose real name is Marcos Paulo Ribeiro de Morais, faced accusations stemming from remarks made during his tenure on the television program "Balanço Geral DF." Back in 2017, the presenter referred to Ludmilla as "pobre macaca," effectively equATING poverty with derogatory racially tinged comments. This phrase not only sparked outrage but also led to Marcão being dismissed from Record TV after significant public backlash.
Despite previous legal decisions which saw Marcão convicted and handed a prison sentence, this latest ruling from the STJ was based on the analysis of evidence presented at trial. The STJ's relator, Minister Daniela Teixeira, noted there were concerns surrounding the primary evidence—a video claimed to be edited and insufficiently contextualized to warrant the conviction. According to the decision, the lack of nuance and the compromised evidence led to the conclusion of Marcão's innocence.
This decision has elicited mixed responses. Ludmilla's legal team announced plans to appeal the STJ's ruling, firmly stating, "A defesa de Ludmilla informa que vai recorrer da decisão e confia que o colegiado do STJ, Tribunal da Cidadania, reverterá a decisão, julgando a conduta do acusado criminosa e preconceituosa, impedindo, assim, um imenso retrocesso para a luta contra o racismo no país." The sentiments of her team reflect broader concerns about racial justice and the durability of derogatory statements going unchecked—a cause not just personal for Ludmilla, but emblematic of systemic issues facing communities of color.
Critics of the ruling were quick to air their grievances on social media. One user expressed, "Se nem a maior cantora negra do Brasil conseguiu ganhar um processo contra um cara que chamou ela de 'pobre' e 'macaca', imagina o que acontece com a população negra mais pobre." This statement captures the sentiment of many who believe the system fails to protect those most vulnerable and visible, lamenting the fact this case could set a dangerous precedent for racial discrimination cases moving forward.
Another social media user articulated frustration, stating, "É injusto que a justiça desse país deixe passar impune um ato de racismo tão cruel quanto esse," underscoring the broader discontent with judicial oversight when it pertains to race. Prominent hashtags like "Justiça por Ludmilla" began trending, echoing the public's determination to spark change and promote accountability for acts deemed discriminatory.
On her side, Ludmilla addressed her followers through Instagram stories, extending gratitude for the outpouring of support. "Muito obrigada pelo apoio e carinho de todos. Meus advogados vão recorrer dessa decisão e eu jamais desistirei dessa luta." This statement highlights her resolve to continue the fight against the dismissal of racial issues and reflects her commitment to ensuring justice is served.
The case remains emblematic of broader societal struggles against racism and discrimination, not only within Brazil but universally. Marcão do Povo’s case serves as a litmus test for how society values the protection of marginalized voices and whether they receive the legal backing they deserve.
With the STJ's absolution of Marcão, many are concerned about the effects of this ruling on future cases of racial discrimination, especially for those without the means to advocate effectively for themselves. Ludmilla's appeal is poised not just as her own fight, but as part of larger movements striving for equality and justice. The responses—both supportive and opposing—have made it abundantly clear: the discourse surrounding race and justice remains as charged as ever.
How the legal tussles conclude will undoubtedly influence initiatives aimed at combating racism, societal perceptions of such issues, and how minorities are represented and protected within Brazil's judicial framework.
