Aula 01: Que Exu abra os caminhos: racismo e intolerância no Brasil - Parte 01

Introduction to the Course on Anti-Racism and Decolonization

Overview of the Course

• The course focuses on anti-racism, decolonization, and Afro-Brazilian history and culture in the classroom. It is a joint initiative by MDPH and the Núcleo de Estudos Afro-Brasileiros at UEL.

• The aim is to promote discussions about Afro-Brazilian culture and history within educational settings.

Significance of the Event

• This event is part of UEL's anti-racist program, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of legislation that mandates teaching Brazilian cultural history in schools.

• Emphasizes the importance of integrating these topics into education as a means to combat racism in society.

Key Concepts from Frantz Fanon

Insights from "The Wretched of the Earth"

• Quoting Frantz Fanon: "Decolonization never goes unnoticed; it fundamentally transforms individuals from passive spectators into active participants in history."

• Decolonization introduces a new rhythm, language, and humanity, creating 'new men' who gain legitimacy through their liberation process rather than any supernatural power.

Acknowledgments and Introductions

Gratitude for Participation

• Acknowledgment of attendees including university officials, collaborators, and professors involved in delivering lectures throughout the course. Special thanks to Professor Silvia for coordinating guest speakers.

• Introduction of Marleide, director of the group studying Afro-Brazilian issues for her remarks on the significance of this initiative.

Marleide's Remarks on Importance

Focus on Critical Discussions

• Marleide expresses satisfaction in being part of this group aimed at fostering important discussions around racism and decolonization among educators and researchers. She emphasizes its relevance for teachers working directly with students.

• Highlights that this event marks UEL's commitment to combating racism while enhancing dialogue between academia and societal issues related to race.

Laura Brandini's Contribution

Reflection on Educational Necessity

• Laura Brandini acknowledges her gratitude for being invited to speak about this crucial course addressing racism and colonization within Brazilian education systems. She stresses its necessity for developing critical reflections against racism through education.

• Cites historical misconceptions linking colonization with civilization which have been challenged by voices from marginalized communities over time, emphasizing an urgent need for change in educational narratives surrounding these topics.

Conclusion by Laura Brandini

Urgency for Change

• Concludes by reiterating that this course is not only important but also urgent given current societal needs regarding anti-racism education.

Introduction and Context Opening Remarks by Viviane

Overview of the Event

• Viviane expresses gratitude for the invitation to speak at the event, highlighting her role as an international relations advisor at the State University of Londrina.

• She acknowledges the importance of discussions surrounding racism and institutional efforts in combating it, referencing ongoing campaigns at UEL.

Recent Conference Insights

• Viviane shares her experience attending a conference in Belo Horizonte with 600 participants focused on international education, emphasizing its theme: "Building Knowledge with All Voices."

• The event featured significant discussions led by journalist Bianca Santana and other speakers addressing diverse voices in academia and their relevance to internationalization.

Challenges in Addressing Racism Complex Discussions on Racism

Difficult Conversations

• Viviane notes that discussions about racism are often challenging and complex, indicating that solutions cannot be achieved overnight but require sustained effort.

• She emphasizes the necessity of recognizing racism's presence in daily life as a critical aspect of their institutional dialogue.

Importance of Dialogue Spaces

• The need for creating spaces for dialogue is highlighted, where difficult topics can be addressed openly among participants during the course.

Acknowledgments and Future Directions Closing Remarks by Viviane

Gratitude to Colleagues

• Viviane thanks Professor Lourival and all faculty members involved for their dedication to sharing knowledge and expertise throughout the course. She encourages participant engagement based on shared experiences.

Aspirations for Anti-Racist Community Building

• She wishes everyone a productive event, hoping that discussions will contribute towards building an anti-racist community within academic contexts. Her closing remarks reiterate appreciation for José Miguel and Marleide's contributions to organizing this initiative.

Vice-Rector's Perspective Aírton Petris' Contributions

Acknowledgment of Efforts

• Vice-Rector Aírton Petris expresses gratitude towards José Miguel Marise for initiating this important anti-racism course, acknowledging internal movements aimed at addressing discrimination challenges within academia.

Commitment to Change

• He stresses that tackling issues like coloniality requires deep societal change beyond mere academic discourse; empowering individuals is essential for effective social practices against hegemony.

Institutional Pride

Transformations in Society and Health Practices

The Role of Educators in Societal Change

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of societal transformations, particularly from a health perspective, highlighting that overcoming challenges is not easy.

• There is a call for educators to take an active role in these transformations, as they hold the power to influence change within their communities.

• The need for decolonization practices and empowerment within society is stressed, aiming for a more just community.

• Acknowledgment of partnerships between universities and management to foster this transformative work is made, indicating collaborative efforts are crucial.

• The speaker expresses gratitude towards colleagues supporting these initiatives and shares personal motivation to learn from the process despite not seeking certification.

Commitment to Learning and Collaboration