A recent statement from the movement condemns actions that occurred at one of the academic week’s sales points, describing them as “tasteless, symbolically violent, structurally and profoundly misogynistic,” and asserting that these actions are not traditional but rather misogynistic in nature.
The movement highlights the severity of the situation, noting that these incidents took place within a “vulnerable space,” characterized by alcohol consumption, social adrenaline, and peer pressure—factors that undermine any genuine sense of consent.
Criticism arose following “alleged sexist behaviors” at the Mechanical Engineering course stalls during the event, organized by the University of Algarve’s Academic Association, which featured decor that encouraged the display of female bodies in exchange for drinks.
The group, R8M, argues that “even after public condemnation and criticism from the academic community,” the responsible associations responded with “disdain and childishness, resorting to jokes and empty arguments about freedom of expression.”
The movement emphasizes that addressing this issue is “neither exaggeration nor puritanism,” reminding that the problem “is real and affects hundreds of students every year, especially women and gender minorities.”
Upon learning of the case, University of Algarve Rector Paulo Águas ordered an inquiry to determine the disciplinary responsibility of the students involved and demanded the cessation of sexist behaviors from the Academic Association.
In a statement, the academic institution asserted that it “does not tolerate, nor will it support behaviors” from students or members of the academic community “that undermine the dignity of all citizens,” regardless of their ancestry, sex, race, language, area of origin, religion, political or ideological beliefs, education, economic situation, social condition, or sexual orientation.
