Thousands of LGBTQ+ activists and supporters flooded the Copacabana boardwalk in Rio de Janeiro for the city’s annual Pride parade on Sunday. The event took on a particularly celebratory tone following the preemptive jailing of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, known for his homophobic rhetoric. Demonstrators, addressing the crowd from decorated trucks, chanted, “He’s in prison!” and “Out with Bolsonaro!” to roaring applause from rainbow-clad attendees. Bolsonaro, who once described himself as a “proud homophobe,” was sentenced in September to 27 years in prison for attempting a coup after his 2022 electoral defeat. His recent imprisonment, ordered by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, was cited as a necessary measure due to his flight risk. Revelers, including Emy Mateus Santos, a 25-year-old arts professor, expressed joy at the development, viewing it as a victory against hate. Santos, wearing the colors of the Brazilian flag, stated, “It shows that fighting hate is worth it and that the future is possible for people like us.” The parade also highlighted ongoing struggles, with participants carrying banners advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and denouncing violence. Organizers reflected on the march’s 30-year history, noting progress but emphasizing the need for continued advocacy. Cláudio Nascimento, a longtime organizer, recalled the early days when participants wore masks to avoid recognition, contrasting it with today’s celebrations of visibility. Despite advancements, violence against LGBTQ+ individuals remains a pressing issue, with 291 reported violent deaths in 2024 alone. Activists like Flávio Salgueiro stressed the importance of unity in the face of societal challenges, while Dani Balbi, Rio’s first trans woman elected to the state assembly, hailed Bolsonaro’s imprisonment as a hopeful step toward a more inclusive future.
Brazilian revelers at Rio’s Pride march rejoice after Bolsonaro’s preemptive jailing
