Natasha Silva, a 25-year-old trans woman, has been awarded R$ 45,000 in damages by the Labor Court after she filed a lawsuit against the Rio Branco Health Department (Semsa) for workplace discrimination. The ruling, made by the 3rd Labor Court in Rio Branco, confirmed that the treatment Natasha received from certain colleagues and supervisors violated her rights and created a hostile work environment. Natasha was employed as a janitorial assistant through a contracting company since January 2025.

In her lawsuit, Natasha recounted her experiences of discrimination, stating that while her coworkers referred to her by her chosen name, the director of Semsa, Luciano Henrique de Souza, persistently refused to do so. This behavior not only marginalized Natasha in her workplace but also added to her emotional distress. The ruling was signed by Judge Milena Novak Aggio, and the Health Department has indicated that they would not comment on the case, leaving the possibility for an appeal open.

This case highlights ongoing issues of discrimination faced by transgender individuals in Brazil, reflecting broader societal challenges regarding acceptance and inclusion. Natasha's victory in obtaining compensation serves not only as a personal triumph but also as a potential catalyst for change in workplace policies towards marginalized communities, emphasizing the need for respect and acknowledgment of individuals' identities in professional environments.