Summary
During her campaign for city council in São Paulo, transgender politician Leonora Áquilla narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on September 26, 2024. The attack occurred while she was investigating reports of transphobia; a motorcycle deliberately collided with her car, and as she exited, the assailant opened fire.
The incident underscores the heightened risks faced by transgender candidates in Brazil, where violence against the LGBTQ+ community is alarmingly prevalent. Áquilla’s experience is emblematic of the broader climate of intimidation that many trans politicians encounter as they seek political office. Despite the dangers, Áquilla and her peers continue to advocate for representation and rights, illustrating both the progress made in trans political participation and the persistent threats that accompany it. The assassination attempt has forced Áquilla to halt in-person campaigning, reflecting the chilling effect such violence has on political engagement in Brazil’s electoral landscape.
Death threats assail Brazil's trailblazing trans candidates as they campaign
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Death threats assail Brazil’s trailblazing trans candidates as they campaign
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