São Paulo educator removed after citing Hitler and Mussolini as leadership examples

Roselaine Batalha Silva, a regional education official in Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo, has been removed from her position following controversial remarks made during a virtual meeting with state educators. During a discussion on leadership held on August 12, Silva recommended reading the biographies of Adolf Hitler, Benito Mussolini, and António de Oliveira Salazar, describing the study of even “bad” figures as “stimulating.”

Silva specifically referred to Hitler’s “Mein Kampf,” stating that while the book’s reproduction is restricted in some contexts, it is “so stimulating” that it could convince nations and youth. She further characterized Hitler as an “exceptional leader,” a claim that has drawn widespread condemnation.

The São Paulo State Secretariat of Education has terminated her functions and opened an investigation into the incident. Additionally, the Teachers' Union of the State of São Paulo (Apeoesp) has filed a representation with the Public Ministry of São Paulo, arguing that Silva did not use these figures merely as historical characters but mobilized them to present specific leadership characteristics.