STREET CARNIVAL AS A COLLECTIVE: CARNIVAL “BLOCOS” AS A FORM OF URBAN ACTIVISM ORGANIZATION IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Abstract

 This article aims to analyze the forms of action of carnival “blocos” in São Paulo’s street carnival that have developed specifically since 2013, a period I refer to as the “new street carnival of São Paulo.” In this reflection, I seek to understand how these groups can be examined through the available literature on urban activism, and to determine whether the actions of the “blocos” share similarities with other forms of organization, such as collectives. I note that the historical period in question begins with the so-called June 2013 demonstrations. Thus, it is also relevant to consider how this context contributed to strengthening the street carnival festivities in São Paulo and to the gradual increase in the number of carnival blocos in the city. Finally, the analysis seeks to discuss how the specific forms of political action employed by collectives may have influenced the emergence of certain carnival “blocos” in São Paulo.