Djamila Ribeiro was one of the honorees at this year’s edition of the Raça Negra Trophy, promoted by the Zumbi dos Palmares University and the Afrobras Association. The awards ceremony took place on Monday (20) in São Paulo.

Launched in 2001, the Raça Negra Trophy celebrates personalities who are active in the struggle against racism and in the defense of the black population. The Raça Negra Trophy has been held annually since 2004, “with the aim of recognizing and praising people who contribute to various activities, providing future generations with a record of their determination, work, perseverance and public example in building a more plural society”, says the official website.

                                                                                  Djamila and singer-songwriter Alaíde Costa, also honored this year

On her Instagram profile, Djamila spoke of the satisfaction of being one of the honorees of the 21st edition of the award.

“It was a great honor to be one of the recipients of the most important award of the Brazilian black community. The Sala São Paulo welcomed the people to celebrate people who have been transforming Brazil, in an edition deservedly dedicated to the great Glória Maria,” a Brazilian journalist who died in February this year.

On social media, the Brazilian philosopher also thanked the organizers of the event and dedicated the Trophy to her parents.

“I thank the Zumbi dos Palmares University, in the person of the magnificent rector José Vicente, and I dedicate this award to my mother and father, representatives of the working class in this country, who fought so hard so that I could be here.”

                                                                                  Djamila and José Vicente, rector of Zumbi dos Palmares University

Recognition

On the awards website, the organization of the Raça Negra Trophy highlights some of the reasons why Djamila Ribeiro was chosen as one of the honorees: “Djamila is tireless in her contribution to the valorization and empowerment of black women and the fight against racism”.

The text also highlights Djamila’s work in the Brazilian publishing market: “To give light to other black writers, she created the ‘Sueli Carneiro Stamp’, making it possible to publish books by more than 25 black authors at affordable prices.”

Check out the full list of honorees for the 21st edition of the Raça Negra Trophy on the awards website: https://trofeuracanegra.com.br/