As I write this post, you are being elected the President of Brazil. For the first time a woman will rise as President and I congratulate you on that. I know you have your flaws, but don’t worry… I will not waste my time comparing you to your rivals.

You represent the continuation of Lula’s government policies in regards to bring real good change to this nation. Our President has made some real good things for everyone, and I included am bound to thank him for many things. I acknowledge him and your government for trying to end poverty, and I expect you to keep focused on that. Many people are still dying hungry every day at the far sight of the capitals.

So, now we have the first female President of the nation. This is a very impressive achievement. Many of them who defend patriarchalism and who share this culture of women being less than men are full of anger now. Let them be, and please do not feel intimidated by them.

I want to remind you (because of course there is a lot of happiness and people agitated because of the news about you being elected) that you represent a lot to a lot of people.

First, do not be overwhelmed by this moment. There are some challenges you will face, and many bad guys will stand against your government. They will effortlessly try to put mines on your feet and to bring your government down. They will attack your image as a women and point the finger at you in every single chance they get.

When you get to sit in the Presidency office, please take a moment to reflect on the lives of the 200 million people who are now going to be governed by you. Especially on the women like yourself. We gave you power, but you have to know how to use it in a proper way, to address the difficulties of the country.

Before every decision, think on the lives of women who die in the lines of hospitals, of those who fail to care of their families because they are underpaid for being women. Think of the little kid who is at the edge of dying from hunger at this very moment. Consider the life of another black young man who has just been killed in one of the capitals of this nation. Think of the gay people who are dying because of hate. Or think of the man who is struggling to get food on the table for his family. Think carefully before every decision you make, because for many you are the light at the end of the tunnel.

By the beginning of 2011, you will be officially the next President. Please help me fight the patriarchalism that pervades all aspects of this society.  You can do that, because you are the PRESIDENT. Your name will inspire others. You will lead many who have the power to make a difference, but can only do that with some support. You will aspire belief and bring motivation to many who do not know what to do with their lives other than sit and wait. You should tell them that “we need to pursue change together” and give us the means to that.

I trust and expect a lot from you, Dilma. But let me warn you…

I will constantly defy you, madam President. I will help push my country forward if you give me the means to, so we can move to a good direction. Expect in me a good partner and defender of what we have the best to show others and contribute from Brazil. But if there is any doubt on this, any bad move, anything that means you’re going to a different direction of what I believe, I’ll challenge you.

You are definitely welcome as the new President, and this is my letter to you Dilma. I’ll keep watching you at close range, to see if all your promises, and every little thing you said will at least be part of an effort to bring Brazil into a new level, but above all, to bring real happiness and equity to our people.

Congratulations!

From your voter,

Diego Casaes.