A voice that could not be silenced
Marielle Franco is the Lesbian Face for LGBT History Month 2019. A councillor who grew up in one of Rio de Janeiro’s most dangerous favelas, Franco was a human rights activist who campaigned against police corruption and violence, and on behalf of Brazil’s most vulnerable. She was a proud member of the LGBT community, and one who fought tooth and nail for its safety and rights. When she was murdered on 14th March last year, the loss of her vital and outspoken voice was felt keenly throughout the country. She was a rising political star who fought with integrity, charisma, and determination, and her death sparked outrage and demonstrations in Brazil and across the globe.