The article discusses the troubling reality that many women in Brazil experience sexual harassment during the Carnival festivities. It points out that for a significant proportion of women, the joyous atmosphere of Carnival is overshadowed by fears of unwanted advances and disrespectful behavior from men. According to research from Instituto Locomotiva, 70% of Brazilian women report fearing sexual assault during the Carnival season, with many sharing personal experiences of inappropriate behavior during the celebrations.

Moreover, the article emphasizes the additional challenges faced by Black and mixed-race women, who historically have been subject to objectification and sexualization. Statistics show that over half of these women have encountered sexual harassment during Carnival, underlining the intersections of race and gender in the context of sexual violence. This situation calls for urgent societal reflection and action towards creating a safer and more respectful environment for women during such public festivals.

In conclusion, the piece advocates for acknowledging and addressing these issues rather than allowing them to be dismissed as an unfortunate side effect of Carnival. It stresses the importance of combating misogyny and ensuring that women's bodies are not treated as public property, urging both social change and increased accountability during times of cultural celebration.