Black Awareness Day: Honoring Zumbi dos Palmares – A Hero of Freedom
November 20 is a landmark date in Brazil, celebrated as Black Awareness Day (Dia da Consciência Negra). This important day honors African heritage and the profound contributions of Black Brazilians to the nation’s culture and history. Above all, it commemorates Zumbi dos Palmares, the iconic leader of Quilombo dos Palmares—a sanctuary founded by escaped slaves who resisted oppression and fought for liberty.
Black Awareness Day is officially observed on November 20 and is a public holiday in eight Brazilian states, including São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Bahia. It is also known as Zumbi dos Palmares Day, highlighting Zumbi’s enduring legacy as a symbol of resistance and freedom.
