Discurso de Ulisses Guimarães na Constituinte

Summary

On October 5, 1988, Ulysses Guimarães, the President of the National Constituent Assembly, praised the active participation of the Brazilian people in drafting the new constitution, calling it a significant step forward in consolidating democracy. Reflecting on the struggles and sacrifices of the nation, he emphasized the transformative nature of the new constitution, highlighting the people's role in shaping it. Guimarães also underlined the importance of moral integrity in governance, warned against corruption, and stressed the ongoing efforts to address social issues. His speech underscored the constitution's role as a symbol of progress and hope for Brazil's future.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ulysses Guimarães, President of the Constituent Assembly, highlights the importance of popular participation in the creation of Brazil's new constitution as a step forward in strengthening democracy.
• 😀 On the day the new Constitution was enacted (October 5, 1988), Guimarães reflected on his 1987 speech that emphasized the nation's desire for change, symbolizing the transition toward democracy.
• 😀 The new Constitution was seen as a powerful transformation, addressing issues such as the restoration of federalism and empowering citizens to actively participate in governance.
• 😀 Guimarães emphasized that the Constitution is not perfect but serves as a critical tool in consolidating the country's democratic future. It allows for amendments and reforms to be made when needed.
• 😀 The Constitution stresses that betraying the Constitution is tantamount to betraying the country, and any violations of it are seen as acts of betrayal against the nation's democratic principles.
• 😀 Guimarães condemned dictatorship and praised the Constituent Assembly's rejection of foreign or imposed ideas, as well as its effort to incorporate grassroots demands through popular amendments and public participation.
• 😀 About 10,000 people were involved daily in the process, engaging directly with the Assembly, ensuring that diverse social groups' voices were heard, from workers to students to military personnel.
• 😀 The Constitution empowers citizens not only to initiate laws but also to veto legislative decisions via referenda, marking a major shift toward participatory democracy.
• 😀 Guimarães underscored the importance of moral integrity in public office, calling for a fight against corruption, which he described as a 'termite' destroying the republic.
• 😀 Despite acknowledging that the Constitution is not perfect, Guimarães emphasized its revolutionary role in providing a foundation for democratic governance and the advancement of social justice for Brazil's people.

Q & A

What is the significance of Ulysses Guimarães' speech on October 5, 1988?

Ulysses Guimarães' speech marked the closure of the National Constituent Assembly and celebrated the completion of Brazil's new constitution. He emphasized the democratic process and the significant participation of the people in shaping the nation's future.

How does Guimarães describe the role of the people in the creation of the new constitution?

Guimarães highlights the active participation of the people in the drafting process. He refers to the numerous public petitions, the daily presence of citizens at the Assembly, and their involvement in presenting over a million signatures in favor of proposed amendments.

What does Guimarães mean when he says the constitution is 'not perfect'?

Guimarães acknowledges that the constitution is not flawless but emphasizes that it is a crucial step forward. He accepts its imperfections and even suggests that it may be reformed or amended as necessary, reflecting the evolving needs of society.

What is the connection between the constitution and democracy in Guimarães' speech?

Guimarães associates the new constitution with the consolidation of democracy in Brazil. He stresses that it represents a move away from the military dictatorship and towards a more participatory and democratic system, empowering the people to engage in political processes.

What role does Guimarães attribute to corruption in Brazilian politics?

Guimarães condemns corruption as a destructive force in the republic. He describes it as the 'termite of the republic,' stressing the need for moral integrity and accountability within the political system to preserve democracy.

What is the meaning of 'the people as super legislators' in the speech?

Guimarães highlights that the constitution gives the people the power to initiate laws and, more importantly, to veto laws through referendums. This empowers citizens to directly influence the legislative process.

How does Guimarães view the relationship between the state and society?

Guimarães believes that society has often played a more active role than the state in shaping Brazil's history. He gives examples of how the society has pushed for change, from military resistance to territorial integrity, and asserts that the state often responds to societal movements.

What is the significance of Guimarães' reference to the 'statute of the man of liberty and democracy'?

Guimarães refers to this 'statute' as a symbol of the hard-fought battles for freedom and democracy in Brazil. It represents the values embedded in the new constitution and the sacrifices made by the people to restore these principles.

How does Guimarães describe the process of drafting the constitution?

Guimarães praises the democratic process of drafting the constitution, highlighting the diverse contributions from various sectors of society, including workers, students, indigenous peoples, and others. He also mentions the extensive public debate and input during the assembly.

Why does Guimarães express 'hatred and disgust' toward the dictatorship?

Guimarães expresses strong opposition to the dictatorship, referring to it as a period of oppression and injustice. His remarks reflect the painful history of military rule and the importance of the democratic transition achieved with the new constitution.