Identidade

The song 'Identidade', performed by the renowned sambista Jorge Aragão, is a work that delves into racial issues and the pursuit of valuing Afro-Brazilian culture. The lyrics serve as an invitation to reflect on Black identity and resistance against the structural racism embedded in society.

At the beginning of the song, the reference to the 'elevator' can be interpreted as an allusion to the infamous practice of segregating social and service elevators—a discriminatory custom that relegated Black people to using separate elevators in luxury buildings. The line 'Se o social tem dono, não vai' ('If the social elevator is claimed, don't go') suggests a refusal to accept this segregation and a call for black individuals to reject systems that oppress them. The song also emphasizes the importance of not giving up space or backing down from the struggle while underscoring the resilience of the Black community and its legacy of resistance.

The song’s chorus is particularly powerful, criticizing the notion of a 'Black person with a white soul' an expression that, while it may seem complimentary, actually perpetuates racist stereotypes and denies Black identity and dignity. This phrase was frequently used in Brazil for a long time, often without being questioned, reflecting a societal norm that took years to be critically examined by the population. With his impactful voice and ability to craft profound lyrics, Jorge Aragão invites listeners to acknowledge and celebrate Black identity in its fullness, free from societal-imposed standards. 'Identidade' is, therefore, a hymn of empowerment and a reminder of the ongoing fight against racism and for the affirmation of Afro-Brazilian culture.