Brejo Bar in Rio de Janeiro targeted in attack during LGBTQ+ event

Brejo Bar, a venue in the Flamengo neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro focused on lesbian visibility, was targeted in an attack during a literary salon celebrating Lesbian Pride. Approximately 70 people, mostly women, were present when an unknown chemical substance—possibly pepper spray or tear gas—was thrown into the space, causing eye and throat irritation and forcing the crowd to disperse.

In addition to the chemical substance, attackers also threw bottles containing what appeared to be urine at the establishment. The incident occurred during an event that included poetry and music, as well as the presentation of a commemorative plaque by City Councilor Monica Benicio.

Owners Priscila Continentino and Vanessa Nascimento have reported the incident to the Civil Police's Specialized Station for Racial Crimes and Intolerance (Decradi). While no physical injuries were reported, the owners characterized the event as an act of lesbophobia aimed at a space dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community.