Conceição Evaristo praises the ‘public lesson’ of Império Serrano and declares: ‘Rio taught me to blossom’
Conceição Evaristo highlighted the Império Serrano's presentation as a 'public lesson' that promotes access to literature.
At this year's samba parade, Conceição Evaristo was honored by the Império Serrano with a theme dedicated to her literary contributions. Evaristo described the school's performance as a 'public lesson' that illustrates the significance of literature drawn from the experiences of black women. She expressed immense pride in witnessing a literary narrative gaining public recognition through this vibrant cultural medium.
Evaristo, who participated in the parade, reflected on the anticipation and excitement surrounding the school's performance and its potential ranking. She emphasized the importance of the themes presented in the parade, advocating for literature to be recognized as a right and a shared experience for all. The integration of literary works into the festival environment serves to break down barriers to access, allowing a wider audience to engage with these important narratives.
The chosen theme, “Ponciá Evaristo — Flor do Mulungu,” celebrates Evaristo's legacy as a prominent figure in Brazilian black literature. Her recognition within such a beloved cultural event underlines the vital role that literature plays in society, particularly in elevating diverse voices and fostering inclusion through artistic expression.