Lamento da Raça

“Lamento da Raça” by Boi Garantido is a poignant and powerful song that addresses the devastating impact of deforestation and environmental destruction in the Amazon rainforest. The lyrics begin with a universal cry of sorrow, as both indigenous people and non-indigenous people mourn the burning of the Amazon. This shared grief underscores the collective responsibility and the profound loss felt by all who are connected to this vital ecosystem.

The song vividly describes the transformation of the natural landscape, with childhood memories turning to ashes and wildlife fleeing from the encroaching flames. The imagery of the saracura, jaguar, monkeys, and birds running away and never returning paints a heartbreaking picture of the irreversible damage being done. This loss of biodiversity is not just an environmental issue but a cultural and emotional one, as the indigenous way of life is deeply intertwined with the natural world.

In the face of this destruction, the song calls for action and unity. The repeated refrain, “Vamos brincar de boi, tá Garantido / Matar a mata não é permitido” (Let’s play with the ox, it’s guaranteed / Killing the forest is not allowed), serves as both a rallying cry and a declaration of hope. By invoking the traditional Amazonian festival of Boi-Bumbá, the song emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage and community in the fight to protect the environment. It’s a call to honor and respect the land, to come together in celebration and resistance, and to ensure that the Amazon and its inhabitants can thrive for generations to come.