Preto Cismado

Aláfia's 'Preto Cismado' is a powerful anthem that delves into the struggles and resilience of Black individuals in Brazil. The song's lyrics are a raw and unfiltered commentary on systemic racism, social injustice, and the enduring spirit of those who face these adversities daily. The phrase 'preto cismado' translates to 'suspicious Black,' a term that encapsulates the prejudices and stereotypes imposed on Black people by a society that often views them with suspicion and disdain.

The song opens with a direct confrontation of these prejudices, highlighting how the state perpetuates racism and how society dismisses the lived experiences of Black individuals. The lyrics 'Você diz que racismo num é isso' ('You say that racism isn't this') challenge the listener to recognize the insidious nature of racism that goes beyond overt acts of discrimination. The song also touches on the intersectionality of oppression, mentioning gender, color, and religion as additional layers of marginalization.

Throughout the song, there is a call to arms for warriors to fight for a world where love and acceptance prevail. The lyrics 'Que venham guerreiros guerreiras de mira certeira' ('Let warriors with precise aim come') evoke a sense of unity and collective struggle. The song also addresses the harsh realities of police brutality and the dehumanization of Black bodies, with lines like 'Muleque que morre pra nós pesadelo, pra eles noticia' ('A kid who dies is a nightmare for us, news for them'). This stark contrast underscores the systemic disregard for Black lives.

'Preto Cismado' is not just a song; it's a manifesto of resistance and resilience. It speaks to the strength and courage of those who refuse to be silenced or marginalized. The repeated assertion 'Eu sou a voz encarnada de todas essas quebradas' ('I am the embodied voice of all these broken places') serves as a powerful reminder of the collective voice and power of the marginalized. Aláfia's music, rooted in Afro-Brazilian culture and rhythms, amplifies this message, making 'Preto Cismado' a poignant and impactful piece of art.