Dois de Junho

Maria Bethânia's song 'Dois de Junho' is a poignant and powerful commentary on systemic racism and social inequality in Brazil. The song is set against the backdrop of a tragic real-life event that occurred on June 2, 2020, in Recife, Brazil. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a domestic worker who, despite the ongoing pandemic, has to go to work, taking her young son, Miguel, with her. The song's narrative centers around the heart-wrenching moment when Miguel falls from the ninth floor of a building, a tragedy that underscores the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities in Brazil.

The song's reference to 'o país negro e racista' (the black and racist country) and 'o coração da América Latina' (the heart of Latin America) highlights the pervasive nature of racism and inequality in Brazil. The mention of 'o destino de Ícaro' (the fate of Icarus) serves as a powerful metaphor. In Greek mythology, Icarus flew too close to the sun, causing his wax wings to melt and leading to his fall. This metaphor is used to illustrate the fragile and precarious existence of those who are forced to navigate a society that devalues their lives.

Bethânia's evocative lyrics also touch on the themes of innocence and loss, as seen in the description of Miguel as having 'nome de anjo' (name of an angel) and the tragic 'trinta e cinco metros de voo' (thirty-five meters of flight). The song is a stark reminder of the human cost of systemic injustice and serves as a call to action for greater social equity. Through her powerful storytelling, Bethânia not only memorializes a tragic event but also challenges listeners to confront the deep-seated issues of racism and inequality in their own societies.