Gleidson Azevedo, the mayor of Divinópolis, Brazil, sparked controversy after sharing a video on social media that made a racially insensitive analogy comparing the buttocks of a gorilla to the lips of a black man named Talles Duque, who is his chief of staff. The video, which was intended to announce the delivery of a regional hospital, garnered over 80,000 views before the mayor deleted it following public outrage. The content was particularly concerning given its implications regarding race and dignity.

In a follow-up statement on social media, Azevedo claimed he is entirely against racism, attempting to distance himself from the backlash. He mentioned that the idea for the video came from Talles Duque, suggesting there was mutual consent to the filming. However, he acknowledged that they did not consider the potential impact or offensive nature of the content, which led to a public outcry.

This incident highlights ongoing issues surrounding racial sensitivity in media and public service, especially in regions with histories of racial tension. The mayor's actions have sparked a conversation about accountability and the importance of understanding the implications of seemingly harmless content, while also emphasizing the necessity for leaders to be conscious of how their actions may be perceived by diverse communities.