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What happened
At Rio de Janeiro's Pride parade on November 23, 2025, thousands of participants celebrated the arrest of former President Jair Bolsonaro, notorious for his homophobic remarks. The event was marked by slogans like 'No amnesty!' referencing a bill aimed at reducing sentences for coup attempts. Bolsonaro, who was sentenced to 27 years in prison for attempting a coup, had been under house arrest until a Supreme Court ruling led to his preemptive jailing. Activists noted that while LGBTQ+ rights have improved since the first Pride march 30 years ago, violence against the community remains a serious issue, with 291 reported violent deaths in 2024. The parade served as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and the need for continued activism.
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Key insights
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1
Bolsonaro's History of Homophobia
Bolsonaro has a long record of anti-LGBTQ+ statements and policies.
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2
Pride March Significance
The event symbolizes the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in Brazil.
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3
Violence Against LGBTQ+ Community
Despite progress, violence against LGBTQ+ individuals remains a critical issue.
Takeaways
The celebration at Rio's Pride march reflects both a moment of triumph over Bolsonaro's oppressive regime and the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Brazil. Activists emphasize the need for continued vigilance and advocacy.