The Quilombo Tia Eva, located in Campo Grande, Brazil, has been officially designated as the first quilombo to be recognized as a cultural heritage site following a new regulation from the National Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage (Iphan). This significant announcement was made on October 10 and marks a progressive step toward the recognition of quilombos in Brazil as essential elements of the country’s cultural identity and historical memory. Historically, quilombos were settlements established by escaped slaves, and their recognition is crucial in acknowledging the struggles and contributions of Afro-Brazilian communities.

The new designation will see the community of Eva Maria de Jesus included in a newly established register dedicated specifically to quilombos, thereby providing legal protection and higher visibility within Brazil. This move aligns with existing constitutional provisions, particularly Article 216, which emphasizes the preservation of sites that hold historical significance related to former quilombos. The official announcement occurred during the 112th Meeting of the Advisory Council of Iphan in Rio de Janeiro, highlighting the government's commitment to preserving this critical aspect of Brazilian culture.

Eva Maria de Jesus, the founder of the quilombo, was born enslaved in Goiás and gained freedom at the age of 49 in 1887, just before the abolition of slavery in Brazil. The historical and cultural significance of her story and the community she founded continues to resonate in contemporary discussions of race, heritage, and reconciliation within Brazilian society, marking an essential step in recognizing and honoring the legacy of Afro-Brazilian heritage in the country.