Street vendors take advantage of the September 7th parade in Brasília to secure extra income.
The Esplanada dos Ministérios, in Brasília, became a hub of activity for dozens of street vendors on the morning of this Monday (September 7th). Seeking a financial boost, they positioned themselves to serve the public attending the civic-military parade. The variety of products ranged from essentials like water and popular snacks such as cotton candy and churros to colorful balloons that caught children’s eyes.
For many, the opportunity to sell at these events represents a significant increase in income. This is the case for 53-year-old Renato Siqueira, known as “Palhaço Bolinha” (Clown Bolinha). He had to leave his home in Água Quente, an administrative region 45 km from the capital, and wake up before 5:00 AM to secure his spot and his merchandise. Carrying a load of balloons and cotton candy, Renato has been working in Brasília for two decades and views dates like September 7th as crucial for supplementing his earnings.
Gustavo Ferreira, 30, who works as a bus conductor during the week, also saw the event as a chance to increase his income. He distributed churros through the crowd, balancing his merchandise with dexterity. Samuel Santos, who lives in Planaltina, 40 km away, chose to sell chilled coconut water. He works as a building doorman and reported that his decision to work the event came right after his regular shift, highlighting the urgency of providing for his two children.
The harsh Brasília sun did not discourage 54-year-old Reinivaldo Garcia, originally from the interior of Paraíba. A vendor of caps and hats, he expressed his desire for his children to have a different future, with more educational opportunities than he had.
Reinivaldo Garcia opened up:
I tell my two children that they must always study so they don’t have to stay under this sun like I do. They need to be independent, right?
These workers, with their intense routines and hope in their eyes, are a fundamental part of the dynamics of major events, demonstrating the strength of resilience and the pursuit of a more promising future.
