Authorities identified more than 50 children and teenagers working at cemeteries in Rio Branco, Acre, during an operation on Monday, November 2, All Souls’ Day. They were cleaning graves and selling candles and flowers, according to the city’s Secretariat of Social Assistance and Human Rights (Sasdh).
The cases were found at São João Batista Cemetery in the Dom Giocondo neighborhood and Jardim da Saudade Cemetery in Tancredo Neves. Most were observed at Jardim da Saudade. Sasdh said its team conducted 53 social outreach visits, including conversations with minors who were accompanied by parents or guardians.
The teams recorded information about the children and their guardians and advised parents to take the minors home. They also explained children’s rights. Sasdh Social Assistance Director Ivan Ferreira said the city plans to follow up with the families and assess the children’s social circumstances, including whether they receive social benefits and attend school.
The teenagers were doing informal work to earn money, Ferreira said. If officials identify a rights violation, the families may be referred to the Specialized Social Assistance Reference Center (Creas). Sasdh also said families can be directed to Social Assistance Reference Centers (CRAS) for follow-up and access to support services, courses and referrals.
Sources: G1.