A series of debates addressing literature produced by women writers in Brazil, particularly Afro-Brazilian writers, will take place in the state of Rio de Janeiro on Oct. 11.
Discussions will revolve around the question: “In what directions do poetry, resistance and daily life intersect?”
Viviane Laprovita, an Afro-Brazilian poet, slammer and visual and graffiti artist who will participate in the debate, says that Brazil is experiencing a “female spring that continues to blossom due to the activism of women in artistic and cultural production.”
She stressed that the silence which has been historically imposed on Black women writers, and artists in general, by Brazil's cultural hubs, has given way to thriving artistic representations in peripheral, working-class neighborhoods.
“To speak about and listen to this woman empowerment process is urgent,” adding, “the only people who don't acknowledge it are those who don't want to.”
Also participating in the event is Angelica Freitas, a poet and translator who said that meetings empowering women are always welcomed.
“These conversations are very important exchanges of poems and experiences” between women artists and the public.” She added that “it would be wonderful if everybody left these gatherings empowered and with greater will to write and change what needs to be changed.”
“Expressions,” which will also take place in the cities of Sao Gonzalo and Madureira, will be mediated by Yasmin Nigri, a writer and poet from Rio de Janeiro.