SAO PAULO — A drag queen is headlining the parade of one of Rio de Janeiro’s most storied samba schools Monday night as Carnival celebrations across the country continue the tradition of ridiculing cultural icons and pushing social boundaries. Last year’s champions, Portela, are to portray the story of Jews who fled persecution in Europe for Brazil. Vittar is a sensation in the Brazilian pop scene, and Carnival has long been a place to celebrate sexuality and diversity. On Sunday, a float in Rio’s samba parade featured a plastic butt with Mayor Marcelo Crivella’s name on it. At parties across the country, revelers have denounced President Michel Temer, former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and other politicians.

Source: National Post February 12, 2018 15:33 UTC