The Ziriguidum Fair Celebrates Diversity with a Performance by ColetivA de Trans Pra Frente

At the 31st edition of the Ziriguidum Fair, held at Praça do Preto Velho in Campo Grande (MS), the Trans Pra Frente Collective, led by Emy Santos, presented a memorable performance with the support of the Mato Grosso do Sul Culture Committee (Comitê de Cultura, CCMS). The fair was packed with spectators, who watched intently for about 15 minutes as the performance brought together art, memory, and reflection on the experiences of trans and cis women in Mato Grosso do Sul.

During the performance, members of ColetivA held up a sign reading “Protect your friends,” prompting silence and emotion among the spectators, before applause once again filled the space. The performance provided a moment of reflection on respect for diversity and the leading roles played by women and trans people in society.

The audience highlighted the impact of the performance. Susan Eloy, an indigenous woman of the Terena ethnic group, commented:

We’re already familiar with their work; this isn’t the first time we’ve seen it. It’s absolutely essential when it comes to respect—always respecting diversity and women’s lives. It will continue to be necessary.

Berbela Mortis, a teacher and artist, added:

The part we watched featured very powerful testimonies. The Trans Pra Frente Collective is very important in this regard. They’ve been on the front lines for a long time, doing this work, which is an essential service to society.

Multidisciplinary artist Gleycielli Nonato Guató also emphasized the importance of the initiative:

“Witnessing a collective of people coming together to debate, fight, and educate is of the utmost importance. We need role models, and they serve as role models through what they do and the message they convey in the face of the regression and the epidemic of violence we’re facing.”

The presentation reinforced the Ziriguidum Fair as a space for resistance, diversity, and artistic development, consolidating its role in promoting trans artists in the Midwest and strengthening local culture, with institutional support from the CCMS.