Independent journalist Glenn Greenwald announced that his husband David Miranda, a Brazilian politician died Tuesday at age 37.
“It is with the most profound sadness that I announce the passing away of my husband, @DavidMirandaRio. He would have turned 38 tomorrow,” Greenwald tweeted. “
Miranda was a member of the Brazilian Congress since 2019.
“David's life was extraordinary in all ways. His mother died when he was 5, leaving him an orphan in Jacarezinho. But a beautiful and compassionate neighbor, Dona Eliane, took him in despite 4 children of her own and deep poverty, became his mom, gave him a chance for a life,” he wrote.
“That gave David the chance to live his full potential in a society that often suffocates it. He was key to the Snowden story, became the first gay man elected to Rio's City Council, then federal Congress at 32. He inspired so many with his biography, passion, and force of life,” Greenwald continued. “Because of how David grew up, there were always many assumptions made by those who didn't know him.”
Greenwald added, “Anyone who did will tell you there was nobody with a stronger will or life force.”
Greenwald wrote that being a father gave Miranda “the greatest pride and purpose” in life.
Miranda first arrived at the hospital in August and was told “there was little chance he'd survive the week,” according to Greenwald.
“I heard the same 3 times since,” Greenwald continued. “He refused, in classic David style. The last 4 months gave our family the most beautiful moments together.”
Greenwald added: “David was singular: the strongest, most passionate, most compassionate man I've known. Nobody had a bad word for him. I can't describe the loss and pain. I'll do my best to honor his legacy: our children and our NGOs. And I know so many will celebrate him and his impact.”
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