The Embaixadores da Alegria, the world's first samba school dedicated to inclusivity for people with disabilities, is set to lead the Champions Parade at the iconic Sambódromo da Marquês de Sapucaí on Saturday. This school, despite not being judged, has won recognition for its commitment to diversity, accessibility, and citizenship in the Carnival scene. The samba-enredo titled ‘20 years of joy opening the way for diversity’ highlights the importance of inclusion in the celebration, with contributions from well-known composers, Pretinho da Serrinha and Fred Camacho.

The school will showcase a blend of members with and without disabilities, reinforcing the notion that Carnival can be a platform for showcasing human diversity. An important aspect of the event this year is the implementation of special facilities designed for individuals with disabilities. In particular, the seating reserved for 600 people with various forms of disabilities demonstrates a significant step towards making such cultural events more accessible and enjoyable for all, helping to break down barriers that often exclude these individuals from public celebrations.

Historically, people with disabilities have not been adequately represented in large events such as Carnaval. The inclusion of sensory vests and live sign language during the parade indicates a shift in perspective and recognizes the need for representation in public celebrations. This initiative not only enhances the accessibility of the event but also sets a benchmark for future celebrations, promoting an atmosphere where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the festivities together. It reflects a broader cultural movement towards inclusivity in Brazil's vibrant Carnaval scene.