Black and Abroad in Brazil

Traveling as a black woman can seem daunting, especially since culture never tells us to. Black women have historically been the caretakers in the Western world. They are mothers to the children of others, they nurture their family, all while actively contributing to their home. However, I believe that it’s necessary for black women to visit Brazil to heal that which the Western world actively tries to take from us.

In Brasil, Black is Beautiful

Every black person wore their hair beautifully. The curls were all juicy, popping, and defined (and yes, even the type 4 curls). They all looked well-groomed and cared for. I can tell that being beautiful is a major priority for Brazilians, rightfully so. It also admires their commitment to deepening their complexions.

I was often mistaken for Brazilian, and I understand.

While looking at the Afro Brazilians, many of their features resembled those of my own: wide smiles, high cheekbones, dimples, and sunken eyes that stretch when you smile. It was so beautiful to see me in others.

I felt like I fit right in, until I didn’t

It’s like my feet knew where to travel to. It’s like the people I’ve known for my whole life. I experienced little to no nasty glares that often come with being a black woman in a foreign country. I also did not feel fetishized, but more admired. It’s the first time that people actively went out of their way to tell me I was beautiful. Linda. And they never let me forget it.

I will say, traveling in São Paulo made me feel unwelcomed as a Black woman when compared to Rio de Janeiro and Salvador. I often got the “what are you doing here/are you lost?” stares. It’s amazing how racism transcends countries, cultures, and language. All racists share the same elitist disposition towards anyone who they feel is not like them. I can’t say I am surprised, given the presence of white Portuguese (the pioneers of what we now know as chattel slavery).