Gilberto Nascimento, the president of the Evangelical Parliamentary Front in Brazil, has criticized the samba parade by Acadêmicos de Niterói during Rio de Janeiro's Carnival, claiming it contained a 'criminal mockery' towards evangelicals. His comments arose after a particular section of the parade depicted conservative values using cans labeled 'family,' which drew the ire of right-wing politicians and activists. Nascimento expressed concerns that such portrayals contribute to divisions in society and disrespect the Christian faith.

Nascimento emphasized that democracy should not involve humiliating those with differing beliefs, advocating for a respectful coexistence among various viewpoints. He asserted that public money should not be used to ridicule citizens based on their convictions, condemning such acts as a violation of democratic principles. His remarks underline a growing tension between progressive and conservative factions in Brazil, particularly within the context of cultural expressions like Carnival.

The situation escalated with the involvement of former First Lady Michelle Bolsonaro, who demanded that the Evangelical Parliamentary Front officially reject what she termed a mockery of Christian faith. This incident reflects the broader cultural and political divides in Brazil, where events such as Carnival often become battlegrounds for ideological conflicts, revealing how artistic expression can invoke serious public backlash depending on the audience's beliefs and values.