LGBT+ Parade highlights right-wing distance, contrasts with March for Jesus

Federal Deputy Erika Hilton, dressed in a transparent black tulle outfit, commanded attention at São Paulo's 30th LGBT+ Pride Parade on Sunday, drawing enthusiastic crowds chanting "Erika, president." Hilton, a key political figure at the event, used the platform to advocate for workers' rights, specifically mentioning the proposed end of the 6x1 shift system, which had been approved by the Chamber of Deputies. She also called on Senate President Davi Alcolumbre to bring the matter to a vote, prompting the crowd to chant "Fora, Alcolumbre" (Alcolumbre out).

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Brazil is a country that wants to see us gone, but we occupy the streets with grit and perseverance. The greatest victory for the Brazilian working class is in the hands of a black trans woman.

The fervor surrounding Hilton stood in sharp contrast to the stance of the right-wing political establishment. While the LGBT+ community occupied the streets, many conservative politicians, including Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, São Paulo Mayor Ricardo Nunes, and State Governor Tarcísio de Freitas, opted to attend the "March for Jesus" held just three days prior. The Attorney General of the Union, Jorge Messias, was also present at the religious event, though reportedly isolated.

Both Mayor Nunes and Governor de Freitas were notably absent from the Pride Parade. Nunes's office stated he was inaugurating a park, while Tarcísio's office did not respond to inquiries. Matheus Emílio, director of the LGBT+ Pride Parade, expressed disappointment at their absence, emphasizing that the parade is a significant cultural event in São Paulo and that the organizers welcome representatives from all branches of government. "The contrast with the March for Jesus shows that LGBT+ citizens are still treated as second-class citizens, our issues are not a priority, and there is no public commitment to our community," Emílio stated.

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The contrast with the March for Jesus shows that LGBT+ citizens are still treated as second-class citizens, our issues are not a priority, and there is no public commitment to our community.

Historically, right-wing politicians did attend the parade, including former Mayor Bruno Covas and Governor Geraldo Alckmin. However, according to Emílio, the rise of "bolsonarismo" has diminished respect for differences. He questioned the "freedom" defended by conservatives and the far-right, suggesting their actions often aim to obstruct the Pride Parade and erode rights. Adding to the tension, councilman Lucas Pavanato attended the parade and caused disruption by filming for social media, supporting a proposal to move the parade indoors and prohibit children's attendance.

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The issue is to disrupt the Parade. Conservatism and the far-right try to take people's rights away. They talk about freedom, but what freedom do they defend?