Duda Salabert's Campaign for Mayor Amid Death Threats

Salabert made history in 2022 when she was elected to Brazil’s lower house of Congress, alongside another trans woman, marking a pivotal moment for trans representation in the country. However, her journey has been fraught with danger; during her previous campaign, she received daily death threats, necessitating an armed escort and a bulletproof vest for her safety. As she seeks to become the first trans mayor of a major city in Latin America, Salabert reflects on the dual nature of her candidacy: it symbolizes both hope and the harsh realities of violence and exclusion faced by the transgender community in Brazil. Despite the threats, she remains committed to her mission, emphasizing the importance of visibility and representation in politics for marginalized groups.

Context of Violence Against Trans Candidates

The political landscape for transgender individuals in Brazil is perilous, with reports indicating that over 100 trans people were murdered in the country last year, the highest number globally. This violence is compounded by a culture of transphobia that has been exacerbated by political figures, including former President Jair Bolsonaro, whose rhetoric has incited hostility towards the trans community. Salabert and her fellow candidates are not only fighting for political office but also for their very lives, as they navigate a system that has historically marginalized and attacked their identities.

The Impact of Representation

Despite the threats and violence, the increasing visibility of trans politicians like Salabert is seen as a catalyst for change. Indianarae Siqueira, a fellow candidate, notes that the success of trans individuals in politics serves as an inspiration for others in the community to engage in the electoral process. Salabert’s campaign, while overshadowed by fear, embodies a broader movement towards inclusion and representation, signaling a potential shift in societal attitudes towards the transgender community in Brazil.

In a landscape where their very existence is often contested, the courage of candidates like Duda Salabert represents a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in Brazilian politics.