The article recounts a personal experience of the author, who faced an absurd situation while waiting for a restaurant table. A blonde young woman approached her to give a compliment, referring to her as a "beautiful brunette." The author politely corrected her, stating that she identifies as black, not brunette. This encounter highlights the problematic use of euphemisms which often mask underlying racial prejudices and can be dismissive of one’s identity.

The author emphasizes that euphemisms in Brazilian society often reveal much about existing racism and social exclusion. When the woman responded defensively, suggesting that calling the author a brunette was a compliment because she was "too beautiful to be black," it illustrated a common misconception that equates beauty with lighter skin tones. The language used in such situations underscores the ongoing discrimination faced by black individuals in Brazil. This indicates a broader cultural issue where society struggles with accepting and affirming black identities without resorting to euphemistic terms.

Through the lens of this experience, the article invites readers to reflect on the pervasive nature of euphemisms and the societal norms that uphold them. By acknowledging this dynamic, the author urges a more robust conversation around race, identity, and the language that shapes perceptions and behavior in Brazilian society. This conversation is essential for breaking down barriers of exclusion and fostering a more inclusive understanding of beauty and humanity.