A Candomblé priestess has filed a complaint against a judge for removing her photo from a religious exhibition, claiming it was an act of religious intolerance.
Solange Borges, a Candomblé priestess and writer, alongside the Institute for the Defense of Afro-Brazilian Religious Rights (Idafro), has taken action against a judge from Camaçari, Bahia, after her photograph was removed from an exhibition at the local court. The removal, which occurred months after the exhibition's inauguration, has been labeled as discriminatory and intolerant by Borges and Idafro in their formal complaint filed with the National Justice Council (CNJ). They claim that such actions reflect a deeper societal issue regarding the acceptance and recognition of Afro-Brazilian religions in Brazil.
The photo had been displayed in the Clemente Mariani Forum since October 2025 as part of an initiative to promote awareness and appreciation of Afro-Brazilian culture and religion. Borges, who also holds the title of Makota in Candomblé, engages actively in the rituals and responsibilities of her faith, further emphasizing the cultural significance of her role. The initiative was seen as a step towards inclusivity; however, the removal of her image raises questions about religious freedom and respect in the country, especially for minority religions.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by practitioners of Afro-Brazilian religions in Brazil, where intolerance and prejudice can still manifest in public institutions. Borges's case not only seeks to address her personal grievance but also aims to spark discourse on the larger issue of religious tolerance within Brazilian society, indicating that the fight against discrimination is far from over and requires continual vigilance and advocacy.
