Security Alert – United States Mission to Brazil

Location: Brasilia

Event:  Brazilian Independence Day Gatherings

Brazilian law enforcement is planning for the possibility of demonstrations in downtown Brasilia on Thursday, September 7.  These demonstrations would coincide with Independence Day celebrations, where an estimated 30,000 people will be in attendance.  Law enforcement will block roads and increase the number of police to monitor the parade and the potential demonstration area at Grito dos Excluidos (refer to the below map).  Please note that rapid escalation from peaceful gatherings to incidents of violence is possible.  Last year there were 80 reported cases of robbery during the celebration, so please review the below actions to take.

The U.S. Embassy in Brasilia cautions all U.S. citizens to avoid all demonstrations given the potential for conflicts between police, demonstrators, and counterdemonstrators without warning.  Generally, areas such as the Esplanada and in the vicinity of government buildings and ministries should be avoided, including walking outside the U.S. Embassy compound.  U.S. Embassy Brasilia recommends compliance with police instructions in the event you are confronted.

The U.S. Embassy in Brasilia will continue to monitor the demonstrations and will send additional messages if necessary.