BLACK CONSCIOUSNESS: RECOGNITION, RESPECT, AND APPRECIATION OF AFRO-BRAZILIAN CULTURE IN ANCHIETA/ES

Abstract

This study aimed to develop pedagogical actions focused on the theme of Black Consciousness with students in the early years of elementary school, promoting reflections on identity, respect for ethnic-racial diversity, and confronting racism in the school context. The proposal was structured from an interdisciplinary approach, involving activities such as: reading stories, musical appreciation, games, artistic productions, and discussion circles, with a view to strengthening racial equality and valuing Afro-Brazilian culture. With an emphasis on children's protagonism, the actions sought to awaken, from the first school years, the students' critical awareness of racial issues, encouraging the recognition and respect for cultural and identity diversity. The project also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN's 2030 Agenda, especially those related to inclusive education and the reduction of inequalities. The intervention was carried out in five schools classified as rural, encompassing multi-grade classes. We used the Action Research methodology, and the results indicate that working with the theme of Black Consciousness in the school environment favors the construction of an anti-racist education, in which all children feel represented, respected, and valued in their identities.