B2 – Upper Intermediate
Hundreds of demonstrators assembled outside Brazil’s National Congress in Brasilia on Wednesday to protest against a bill aimed at further criminalizing abortions. This proposed legislation has sparked outrage and mobilized activists across the country, highlighting deep divisions over women’s reproductive rights.
Learn more about this protest by reading this article.
https://apnews.com/article/brazil-abortion-bill-protests-rape-21ee9a590cafdaa11108b54029660ba8
Vocabulary Questions:
- What is the meaning of “to take to the streets”? “Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Sao Paulo on Saturday as protests sweep across Brazil in opposition to a bill that would further criminalize abortions.” Use this in a sentence.
- Define “to be whipped from all sides” in this context. “We are being whipped from all sides, us women. It’s past time we do something.” Use this in a sentence in this context.
- What does “emblazoned” mean? “Placards, stickers and banners emblazoned with the slogan have abounded during demonstrations.” Make a sentence with this expression.
Discussion Questions:
- How do you feel about equating late abortions with homicide?
- In your opinion, how should the government respond to the concerns raised by the protesters?
- How do you think international attention could impact the debate over this bill in Brazil?
- How does the abortion law in your country compare to the proposed legislation in Brazil?
- What is your insight on this, “Late access to abortion reflects inequalities in health care.“?