From Censorship to Resistance: Mobilisations in Defence of Freedom of Artistic Expression in Brazil

This article examines online and offline responses to attempts to censor artistic productions in Brazil between 2017 and 2022. It focuses on identifying and analysing instances of artistic censorship attempts and the mobilisations they provoked. By situating these events within the broader Brazilian political context, the study highlights new repertoires of action that enable agency and creativity in resistance efforts. It also explores how these mobilisations defended freedom of expression, a fundamental principle for fostering plurality and inclusion in public debate. The research employs content analysis, following Krippendorff and Boc’s (2007) criteria, to investigate censorship mechanisms and media narratives drawing on data from journalistic websites and social media platforms. The findings reveal that opposition to censorship unfolded through four main dynamics: campaigns, street protests, alternative actions, and hashtag activism. Notably, alternative actions emerged as the most expressive form of resistance, characterised by creativity. These protests against censorship took shape through diverse artistic performances, underscoring the ongoing adaptability of artists as they challenged restrictive norms and expanded their repertoire in defence of freedom of expression.