Why This Photo Has Gone Viral

Whatever you do, read this ’til the very end…

A photo that shows two women embracing on a subway platform in Brazil has gone viral but not for the reasons you might think. Nelson Felippe shared the photo on his Facebook page and as he explains in his own words, he was simply outraged by the sight he was forced to endure. In his strong view, it’s not normal, it’s absurd and what kind of message does this send to children?

First of all, prepare to feel the rage; here’s the English translation of his message:

?I am not prejudiced, I think everyone does what they want out of your life. But I find it absurd that I should be forced to witness a scene like this.

?What one does in private is your business, but what you do in public concerns me yes. And I refuse to see a scene like this and consider it normal.

?I do not wish ill of anyone, but people should be preserved. [They] are challenging social conventions, and this can be dangerous.

?If after a tragedy strikes, or worse, if someone dies, who will put the blame on who? On me? ?Worst of all is the example for children.”

Now take a moment to look a little closer at this photo, what’s going on in the background?

?What would happen to a child who sees this scene every day? Kids will think it’s normal to wait for the subway on the yellow line. So, don’t act like that guy over there. Follow the example of the girls. Wait for the subway BEFORE the yellow line, and only cross the track after the subway has stopped and with the doors open.?

Aha, the penny drops.

Nelson’s powerful message is currently doing the rounds, much to his surprise. Not only has he made a fair point about health and safety, he’s set an impressive precedent for all kinds of messages around the subject of equality and acceptance.

@CarolineForan