AN estimated three million gays, lesbians and transvestites have paraded down the main avenue of Brazil's business capital, Sao Paulo, to condemn homophobia, racism and machismo."This is the biggest parade on the planet," Tourism Minister Marta Suplicy said. "Our city is again showing that it respects diversity."
The Sao Paulo Gays, Lesbians, Bisexuals and Transvestites Parade Association said warm temperatures of 31C had helped draw more than last year's 2.5 million marchers.
Military police estimated that about a million people jammed into the skyscraper-lined Avenida Paulista, but there were many more in surrounding streets. About 900 officers were on duty to help maintain order.
The Pope, on a five-day visit last month to Brazil, the world's most populous Catholic country, attracted fewer than a million to listen to his calls to reinforce traditional family values.
During the parade, bands played on 23 trios eletricos, or huge trucks, with their music blasted from massive loudspeakers. Marchers, many wearing feather costumes, unfurled a giant rainbow-coloured flag.
"I'm proud to parade," said Jose Alves Filho, a 42-year-old hairdresser. "Here there's no violence, only fun."
Sponsors included Brazil's state energy company, Petrobras, and the state-owned Caixa Economica Federal bank. Along with Ms Suplicy, Sport Minister Orlando Silva also attended.
The Governor of Sao Paulo state, Jose Serra, and city Mayor Gilberto Kassab were at the parade.
The parade, which was officially sanctioned for the first time, is seen as a major cash cow, attracting about 300,000 Brazilian and foreign visitors, who boost the receipts of hotels, restaurants and shops.
A study this year by consumer research consultants Insearch found Brazilian gays were above-average wage earners and spent 40 per cent more on leisure than heterosexuals.
Last week, an estimated one million evangelical Christians marched in Sao Paulo to protest against homosexuality and the gay pride parade.
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