The Antiracist Movement of Sorocaba (MAS) is organizing the inaugural edition of the MAS Block, the first antiracist carnival block in Sorocaba, São Paulo, which will take place on Saturday, the 21st. The parade aims to celebrate Afro-Brazilian culture, promote diversity, and encourage social mobilization, thereby strengthening the presence of Black communities in the city's public spaces. This event is designed to foster a sense of community and cultural pride among the participants and the wider population.

Free to the public and organized independently by MAS, the event has been in the works since 2021 when the collective began engaging in antiracist education and community mobilization initiatives. The block's concept was born from the desire to create a carnival space where everyone can joyously celebrate Afro-Brazilian culture, embracing a spirit of joy, power, and lightness. Giovanna Souza Pereira, an organizer with MAS, emphasized the cultural significance of carnival as a celebration rooted in the creativity, resilience, and expression of Afro-Brazilian communities.

This initiative not only highlights the rich traditions of Afro-Brazilian culture but also serves as a platform for raising awareness about racial issues in Brazil. By bringing together diverse populations in the festive atmosphere of carnival, it aims to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of Black heritage and foster a sense of solidarity among participants. The event underscores the importance of visibility and representation in public spaces, especially in a cultural celebration that has historical ties to the Black experience in Brazil.