Recently, the tragic death of a dog named Orelha in Praia Brava, Florianópolis has captivated the Brazilian public, sparking outrage and mobilization across social media platforms. Public figures and international attention have also been drawn to this case, leading to calls for justice and accountability. This incident has opened discussions surrounding broader issues of crime and punishment in Brazil, particularly sparking comparisons to the notorious historical case of Galdino Pataxó, an indigenous man killed in 1997.

Galdino Pataxó’s brutal murder occurred in Brasília when he sought refuge at a bus stop, becoming a victim of a horrific act committed by five wealthy youths who set him on fire while he slept. The societal implications of both cases reflect a deep-seated concern regarding the discrepancies in societal responses to different kinds of violence. While Orelha’s case has mobilized a strong movement for justice, Galdino's case highlights ongoing issues of racial and social injustice that have persisted over the years.

As public discourse continues to evolve, many Brazilians are grappling with the concepts of not only justice but also the accountability of the privileged within their society. The comparative analysis of Orelha’s and Galdino’s cases serves to underscore the persistent thread of impunity that runs through the nation’s legal and social frameworks, emphasizing the need for systemic change to protect marginalized communities, whether human or animal.