The Experience of the AfroMemory Project in the Preservation of Intellectual Heritage and Anti-Racist Movements in Brazil

Workshop

24 June 2025 – Hybrid Event
07:00–10:00 Ciudad de México
10:00–13:00 Buenos Aires / São Paulo
15:00–17:00 Berlin / Cologne

Mário Medeiros
Universidade Estadual de Campinas and Researcher Cebrap, Brazil /
Principal Investigator Mecila / Mecila Germany Research Visitor

The Experience of the AfroMemory Project in the Preservation of Intellectual Heritage and Anti-Racist Movements in Brazil

Abstract:
The workshop will discuss the anti-racist project developed by the Arquivo Edgard Leuenroth (AEL — Edgard Leuenroth Archive) at the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) in Brazil, which involves assembling collections related to Black social organizations in the state of São Paulo for preservation and dissemination. The relationship between archives and anti-racism will be analyzed along two dimensions: one that considers the very act of incorporating materials into the archival apparatus, and another that involves the search for a new participatory paradigm for archival practices and decision-making. These collections allow us to reimagine the role of Black organizations in the history and future of Brazil. Thus, preserving and ensuring access to them is part of a broader initiative to redefine the role of archival institutions in policies aimed at dismantling racism.

This is an event specially designed for individuals interested in the management of historical archives, civil society organizations dedicated to historical memory, and researchers exploring the intersections of historical memory and racism. Prior to the workshop, participants will receive selected reading materials that will serve as the foundation for discussions and activities. Advance registration is required.

In person:
Conference Room, Ibero-Amerikanisches Institut (IAI), Potsdamer Str. 37, 10785 Berlin

Online

Registration and Information:
Dr. Carlos M. Nupia
Postdoctoral Investigator
Mecila – Ibero-Amerikanisches Institut (IAI)
nupia@iai.spk-berlin.de