Massive gay pride parade engulfs Sao Paulo in defiance of Brazil’s conservative climate
- Up to three million expected during annual march, as many in LGBT community feel increasingly victimised
One of the world’s largest LGBT Pride parades took centre stage in Sao Paulo on Sunday with the carnivalesque festivities tinged with unease over Brazil’s conservative political climate under President Jair Bolsonaro.
As many as three million people were expected to take part in the annual march through the heart of Brazil’s economic capital, traditionally an exuberant celebration of camp, colour and fantasy.
But this year, many participants said they were turning out because they feel their liberties are increasingly under threat.
“I came to fight against homophobia and disrespect,” said 31-year-old Monique Barber, who said she faced verbal attacks at the start of the march.
“We have a homophobic politician and we are seeing things go backwards. Just imagine being attacked at the LGBT march itself,” she said.
