Representation: "we need to move from talk to action"

By Gisele Federicce

Last week, I interviewed someone for the Casa das Manas program.I am presenting this interview on TV 247 with Iêda Leal, the national coordinator of the Unified Black Movement (MNU), who is currently a member of the Technical Group for Racial Equality on the transition team of the future Lula government.

On this November 20th, Black Awareness Day, I highlight some points from Iêda's speech about where we were in the fight against racial inequality in Brazil when the PT left power, and the strength of representation in government appointments, among other topics.

Goal:

"In a short time, we have to provide answers on the issue of Public Security, which today determines the death of some."

"Our number one priority is to end poverty; fighting hunger is the starting point."

Where have we left off in the fight against racism?

“We stopped at a point when we were trying to take a different look at society. We were interrupted by the violence of removing a woman from the presidency.”

Revolution through education:

"The diploma is yet another tool for us to 'strike' at prejudice. To beat prejudice, dispel discouragement, and give a good thrashing to all those forms of violence that prevent the population from succeeding in helping their country escape poverty."

"This revolution will continue. Four years is a short time, but it's a new beginning."

Representativeness:

“[We must] move from talk to action. Change the picture of representation. This requires a lot of wisdom and a lot of courage. We can't say that there aren't qualified people; we won't accept that kind of excuse. This 'mirror' is fundamental.”

Lula's speech:

"The symbolism of the barbecue... people didn't understand that. We want happiness."

"To rebuild it starting with the acquisition of the most basic goods"

The argument for a more representative team reflecting Brazilian society, with a greater presence of women and Black people, has not been limited to leaders of the Black movement or working groups on this topic. This is just considering the last few days and the context of 247. Interviewed on Boa Noite 247 this week.Former Health Minister and Unifesp professor Arthur Chioro argued:

"That photo we saw of the Bolsonaro government's composition, all white men, cannot and will not be repeated."

Num powerful article this Sunday (20)Congresswoman Benedita da Silva writes that, "this time, after seven years, we can have real hope for the resumption of policies against racism and the promotion of racial equality," recalling that "the last time we celebrated this date under a government that actually fought racism was in 2015, with President Dilma."