Google recently made the decision to remove a gaming app from its Play Store following an outcry of racism in Brazil. The app, named “Slavery Simulator,” allowed players to engage in the buying, selling, and torture of virtual Black “slaves.” This caused significant controversy and prompted the prosecutor’s office to launch an investigation into potential “hate speech” associated with the game, as it had been downloaded by numerous individuals.
The app itself included a disclaimer stating that it condemns “all types of slavery” and insisted that the game existed solely for entertainment purposes. However, Google decided to withdraw the app and issued a statement emphasizing its stance against applications that promote violence and hatred towards specific racial or ethnic groups.
Furthermore, Google encouraged users to report any offensive content they encounter on its platforms. In response to the situation, Brazil’s ministry of racial equality appealed to Google to implement measures that filter out content containing hate speech, intolerance, and racism to prevent its rapid, unchecked dissemination.
It is worth noting that racism remains a prevalent problem in Brazil, which only abolished slavery in 1888, making it the last country in the Americas to do so. With over 56 percent of its population being Afro-Brazilian, the existence of such an app that rewards players for inflicting cruelty in a context reminiscent of slavery is deeply concerning.
Renata Souza, a regional lawmaker in Rio de Janeiro, expressed her disapproval of the app, describing it not only as racism but also as a manifestation of neo-fascism. Souza highlighted a lack of regulation on social networks as a contributing factor in allowing such content to proliferate.
It is worth noting that Google has previously voiced opposition to a bill aimed at combating online disinformation in Brazil, claiming it poses a threat to free speech. The bill’s supporters argue that it is necessary to counter disinformation and online extremism, while opponents perceive it as censorship.
A Supreme Court judge has initiated an investigation into Google and Telegram for what he deems their “abusive campaign” against the bill.
In light of recent events, the incident involving racist insults directed at Vinicius Junior, a Brazilian player for Real Madrid, has further highlighted the issue of racism in the country. To show solidarity with the player, the lights on the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro were turned off for an hour.
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Basant Kasayap is an entertainment aficionado who delves into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. From Hollywood to Bollywood to regional cinema, she offers readers an insider’s perspective on the world of movies, music, and pop culture.
