Bar associations and judges’ associations called for political differences to be set aside in order to defend Brazil’s sovereignty. On Friday, more than 250 Brazilian social organizations issued a manifesto in defense of national sovereignty in response to interference from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened to sanction the country over what he claims is political persecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro.

“We repudiate any and all forms of intervention, intimidation or admonition aimed at subordinating our freedom as a democratic nation,” reads the manifesto, which was presented at the University of Sao Paulo’s Law School.

The chant “No to tyranny! Sovereignty is not negotiable!” echoed in unison from students, professors, and workers every time a speaker ended a key statement during their speech.

Among the organizations that signed the open letter were bar associations and judges’ associations from several states, which called for political differences to be set aside in order to defend Brazil’s sovereignty.

Celso Fernandes Campilongo, dean of the University of Sao Paulo’s Law School, said the letter marks an initial step in defending the sovereignty of the South American nation.

“Sovereignty means having the final word on what law is valid for a people and a territory,” the academic declared, adding that “it is unacceptable” for there to be “foreign interference in the functioning of Brazilian institutions.”

“Highlights from the protest at the University of Sao Paulo today! Students, professors, and the people united to shout: Trump, respect Brazil!

Although the letter does not mention Trump by name, Campilongo explained that this omission was intentional: “Everyone is absolutely clear about who this message is for.”

This public display of dissatisfaction with U.S. foreign policy comes less than a week before a 50% tariff on Brazilian products is set to take effect. The Trump administration justified the measure by citing an alleged “witch hunt” against Bolsonaro, who is facing trial in the Supreme Court over an attempt to stage a coup.

The dispute has sparked a series of media clashes between Trump and President Lula da Silva, who has described the Republican leader’s threats as “unacceptable blackmail.”

Meanwhile, Bolsonaro, the leader of the Brazilian far right, is due to appear before the Supreme Court to face charges of leading a plot to overturn the 2022 election results, prevent Lula’s inauguration, and remain in power.

Tensions between Brazil and the United States further escalated after the Trump administration revoked the visas of several Brazilian Supreme Court justices.

In this context, Campilongo, a member of the São Paulo Academy of Law, said the manifesto also serves as “a defense of the Supreme Court,” which has been the target of several interventions and attacks.”

Before closing the event, attendees shouted the refrain of the Independence Anthem, the song composed in 1822 to celebrate Brazil’s emancipation from Portugal. “Either free the homeland or die for Brazil,” resounded through the hall, filled with green and yellow flags.