A video capturing the moment filmed not by the child’s mother, as many initially assumed, but by another passenger – spread rapidly online, triggering a storm of online criticism and shaming.
Now, she has decided to take legal action, filing a lawsuit against GOL Airlines for the emotional distress and damage caused by the situation.
Additionally, she has filed a separate lawsuit against the passenger who recorded and shared the footage.
She emphasized that her goal is not just personal compensation but also to prevent similar cases of public shaming and unauthorized exposure in the future.
Previously, it was reported that she was “considering” taking legal action.
“What should have been just an ordinary flight turned into an extremely embarrassing situation, exposing me unfairly and causing consequences that affected both my personal and professional life. “
“I was the target of judgments, attacks, and speculation from people who don’t even know the full story.”
Since she had booked that specific seat ahead of time, she expected the child to move to another available spot.
“I waited for him to correctly accommodate himself in another seat, and then I sat down in my seat,” she recalled.
“What surprised me was the fact that a person who had nothing to do with the situation started filming me without permission, insulting me and trying to publicly embarrass me simply because I didn’t want to change seats.”
As the video circulated online, Castro found herself facing harsh criticism, which she said had a serious impact on both her mental health and professional career.
“Professionally, my life has changed a lot, so much so that today I am no longer in the field I worked in before,” she added.
“I was a banker. In my personal life, at the height of the repercussions, I practically didn’t leave the house. “
Frustrated by the widespread backlash and invasion of her privacy, Castro ultimately decided that taking legal action was the best course of action.
“I decided to sue the airline because what happened to me was a huge embarrassment, and this situation should never have reached this point,” she said.
“This lawsuit is not just about reparations, but also about setting a limit on this type of behavior. “
“We all have rights, and they must be respected, regardless of other people’s opinions.”
“There is no action against the child’s mother, only against those who violated my privacy.”
Despite the controversy, Castro remains firm in her belief that she had every right to stay in the seat she had selected.
“I believe that we live in a society where thinking differently is natural and healthy, as long as there is respect. “
“What makes everything more complicated is when people judge or attack without knowing all the details of the situation.”
“I believe that we should respect people’s choices and decisions, especially when they are within their rights,” she said.
“It’s essential to normalize ‘no’ and understand that no one should be forced to justify something they simply don’t want to do,” she added.
“Each person has their own reasons, preferences, and limits, and all of this must be respected without judgment.”
As she waits for the lawsuit to proceed, Castro says she is focused on reclaiming her privacy and advocating for people’s right to say no without fear of public humiliation.
GOL Airlines declined to comment on the matter.
