Making a right turn: spatiality and symbolic elements of “patriot” camps in Brazil

Key features of right-wing protest camps, in contrast to renowned pro-democracy and progressive camps such as the occupation of Tahrir Square, Hong Kong government’s headquarters, Wall Street, and Puerta del Sol, have not been thoroughly investigated yet. This article aims to address this gap by closely analyzing the Brazilian “patriot camps” – self-identified enclaves of pro-Jair Bolsonaro supporters who occupied for 70 days public spaces near Army barracks and regional commands across the country, advocating for military intervention and elections annulment. This article assesses the concepts of spatiality, affect, autonomy, infrastructure, and symbolic elements within these right-wing protest camps, with a particular emphasis on the role of digital technology. Methodologically, the study hinges on qualitative analysis through participant observation at Brasília’s largest Bolsonarista camp and data gathered from Telegram groups, media outlets, and official documents tied to an ongoing investigation and trial. Similar to other camps, digital media was extensively used for both mobilizing supporters and coordinating camp activities. Findings indicate that the collective identities of Brazilian right-wing campers originated in virtual spaces and later materialized within physical campsites, strengthening anti-democratic inclinations and violent actions. Within the Brazilian context, collective identity was visually manifested through nationalistic elements, such as the widespread display of the national flag and of its green and golden colours. These identities frequently centred around conservative values, including a commitment to the nuclear family, anti-communism, and a noteworthy trust in the armed forces. However, the use of comparable forms of action employed in the past by more progressive and leftist groups, including Brazilian landless and squatting movements, emphasizes the fact that specific protest features can cross over and develop within disparate movements, showcasing captivating paradoxes.