The president of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, was named “Gays’ Santa Claus” by the country’s Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Travesties and Transsexuals (ABGLT) organization during a meeting of social groupings at the Planalto Palace (Government House) in Brazilian capital Brasília.
“You’re a hero, you’re a good guy. You have a white beard, you are gays’ Santa Claus,” said Antonio Luiz Martins dos Reis ABGLT president, who recalled that this month the Brazilian government decreed that homosexual couples can present an only income tax statement.
Dos Reis took advantage of the meeting to invite Lula to participate next year at the second march against homophobia and gave the president a flag with the traditional rainbow colors.
In his speech Lula thanked the social movements and organizations for their “support and solidarity during difficult moments” and anticipated that now as a “simple citizen” they can count on him to fight for their rights.
“But,” underlined the outgoing leader, “never ask me to talk against the president, because I won’t nor am I going to speak out against any of the ministers who are my friends,” said Lula.
This week also the Brazilian government created a National council to combat homophobia.
