supports HTML5 videoHundreds of thousands of people took to the streets of Sao Paolo for the annual LGBTQ+ Pride parade following two years of virtual events during the pandemic.The 26th event in the Brazilian city was held under the slogan ‘Vote with pride – for policies that represent us’, in reference to the upcoming presidential election in October.Incumbent far right-wing leader, Jair Bolsonaro, faced criticism from revellers who shouted and held signs aloft calling for his departure from office.The president, who has described himself as ‘proudly homophobic’, will be pitted against left-wing rival Lula da Silva, who is currently ahead in the polls.
Sao Paolo was transformed into a rainbow party for the event, with colourful floats lining the streets.The march travelled from main road, Paulista Avenue, advancing towards Roosevelt Square on Sunday.
Among the crowds was 31-year-old primary school teacher Braulio da Silva, who praised the theme of the event. ‘You can’t be silent, you can’t be submissive anymore.