The National Black Consciousness Day in Brazil commemorates the death of Zumbi, the leader of Palmares who symbolized the achievements of the black movement. The day was first celebrated in 1971 by the black movement to combat racial discrimination and spread awareness of their cause. It has since encouraged debates and cultural programs across Brazil on topics of racial issues and discrimination. However, some argue that rather than divide people by race, there should be a focus on human consciousness and equality every day of the year.

1. Why was it necessary to create the black
consciousness day ?
The National Black Consciousness Day is celebrated on
November 20th. The date refers to the death of Zumbi,
the then leader of the Palmares which was located
between the states of Alagoas and Pernambuco, in
northeastern Brazil.
The figure of Zumbi of Palmares is especially claimed by
the black movement as a symbol of all these
achievements, so that the law that established the Day
of Black Consciousness was also the result of this claim.
The day was first celebrated in 1971. The idea spread to
other social movements to combat racial discrimination
and, in the late 1970s, have appeared as a national
proposal the Unified Black Movement. Since then, the
date has encouraged the promotion of forums, debates
and cultural programs on the topic throughout the
country.
“We do not need a black consciousness day,
white, brown, yellow, albino ... We need 365 days
of human consciousness.” Thiago Saraiva
Ana Flavia Araújo, Eduarda Vieira, Hellen Gomes, Maria Thereza
Silva
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