SAO PAULO (AP) — More than 300 people of different native ethnic groups rallied Thursday in front of Justice Ministry protesting against legislation that would reduce the size of some indigenous reservations.
Images aired by the Globo TV network showed several demonstrators using face paint and headdresses and carrying bows and arrows in what Sgt. Daniel Barroso, a spokesman for the Brasilia police department, said was a peaceful demonstration by some 400 indigenous people.
He said the protesters temporarily blocked the four entrances to the ministry.
The indigenous protesters were demanding to meet with Justice Minister Eduardo Cardozo to discuss the reservation-reduction legislation.
It was the second demonstration by indigenous people this week in Brazil’s capital.
On Tuesday, the same groups demonstrated for the same reason and clashed with police, forcing the cancellation of a ceremony just outside Brasilia’s new stadium that will host Cup matches and where the World Cup trophy was to be exhibited.
Some demonstrators were armed with bows and arrows, and fired a few arrows at mounted police, one of which hit an officer in the leg.
During Tuesday’s protest the indigenous people were joined by demonstrators rallying against Brazil’s hosting of the World Cup. Many Brazilians are angered about the billions being spent on the tournament, saying the money should have gone to improving Brazil’s woeful public services.
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