BRAZIL: Thousands march through Rio de Janeiro to celebrate gay pride

Despite rainy weather in typically sunny Rio de Janeiro, thousands of gays, lesbians, and transvestites from across Brazil paraded through world famous Copacabana beach on Sunday (July 30) to protest against homophobia and demand more rights. Proudly exhibiting the colours of the rainbow, the homosexual community and supporters celebrated sexual diversity with the slogan "I'm a citizen. I'm equal to you". Event organizer Claudio Nascimento said every year a greater number of heterosexuals have been attending gay pride parades to support their fight for more political rights. "The (gay pride) parades have been proving each time more, that people, non-gay, non-lesbians, have joined the fight against prejudice towards homosexuals," he said. Amid flags and vividly decorated trucks, thousands danced to the sound of blaring music as the parade started. Parade participant Claudio Gomes who came from Sao Paulo with his partner said he participates in all gay pride parades that happen in Brazil to show that not all gays are feminine as they are commonly portrayed. "As in other places (where parades take place) we came to despel the myth that all gays are feminine. The person can be muscular, gay, of any form, there's no prejudice," he said. Participants seemed proud to show off their sexual orientations and exchanged kisses and caresses for all to see. Fernanda Souza who went to parade with her boyfriend said it i was important to support homosexuals, showing that even heterosexuals can participate in their celebration. "It's important (to have gay pride parades) to break some of societies' prejudices. Everyone is equal, independent of sexual choice," she said. Costumes that ranged from skimpy briefs to cowboy, sailor, soldier, police officer, and goth outfits added even more colour to the post card view of Rio's Copacabana beach.

ITN Source | July 31, 2006

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