From Mad in Brasil: The 9º International Seminar The Psychiatric Drug Epidemic began on October 30 at the Sergio Arouca National School of Public Health (ENSP/Fiocruz), marking another moment of reflection, debate and criticism on the direction of the psychiatric medicalization of contemporary life. The opening was conducted by Professor Paulo Amarante, who regretted the cancellation of the pre-seminary that would be held the day before at the State University of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ) due to the serious public security crisis in Rio de Janeiro. The police operation carried out on October 28 killed more than 120 people and turned into the largest massacre committed by the state, bringing fear and insecurity to the lives of cariocas, especially those who live in the favelas and peripheries affected by the operation. Due to the serious events, the organization of the seminar decided to suspend the solidarity economy fair and part of the cultural programming, launching a report guiding registrants on the risks of face-to-face participation and stimulating online participation in the event. Still, the seminar was attended by about 100 people, in addition to an audience of about 4,000 people, who watched and debated via YouTube. The researcher emphasized the importance of transforming pain into resistance and solidarity and the need for change in the drug war policy for a policy that guarantees rights to the population.
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