Brazil’s winter of discontent

Editor's note: This is an updated version of a story published early Wednesday. Check back for more updates on this unfolding story.

BRASILIA, Brazil — “We have woken up,” reads a banner youths are carrying in their march on congress. They're also holding bandanas soaked in vinegar — for protection from tear gas.

Hundreds of protesters bypass shield-wielding police to scramble up a ramp and storm the roof of Brasilia's congress. Now they whoop, sing and dance, casting giant shadows over Oscar Niemeyer's iconic bowl architecture.

That was the stunning scene, Monday night, in Brazil's capital, as protesters simultaneously marched through the streets of 10 other cities, including Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, braving a sometimes violent backlash from police.