Fui Abordado
MC Cebezinho
Navigating Prejudice and Opression: The Story of 'Fui Abordado'
In 'Fui Abordado,' MC Cebezinho delves into the harsh realities of racial profiling and police harassment that many young black men face in Brazil. The song begins with the artist recounting a recent encounter with the police, where he and his friends were stopped and questioned. The lyrics highlight the immediate assumption of guilt and the contradictory statements made by the police, reflecting a deep-seated prejudice. The question, 'Cê tem passagem? Tem dvc?' (Do you have a record? Do you have a criminal record?), sets the tone for the rest of the narrative, showcasing the systemic bias that exists within law enforcement.
As the story unfolds, MC Cebezinho describes his mental preparation for the inevitable prejudice he would face. He was with two friends, one from childhood and another who works with him. Despite having nothing to hide, the police's suspicion and derogatory comments reveal the everyday struggles of living under constant scrutiny. The line, 'Tá com porco vai comer lavagem junto' (If you're with a pig, you'll eat slop together), underscores the dehumanizing treatment they receive, equating their association with criminality simply based on their appearance and location.
The song also touches on the artist's profession and the disbelief from the police that someone from the favela could be an artist. The dismissive question, 'Artista? Ele é modelo? E porque ele tá na favela se ele é artista?' (Artist? Is he a model? And why is he in the favela if he's an artist?), highlights the stereotypes and limited perceptions of success for people from marginalized communities. MC Cebezinho's plea for divine protection and the desire to enjoy his achievements 'Longe de toda opressão' (Far from all oppression) encapsulates the yearning for a life free from systemic injustice and the hope for a better future.
The song is a powerful commentary on the intersection of race, class, and law enforcement, shedding light on the everyday experiences of those living in the favelas. It calls for empathy, understanding, and a change in societal attitudes towards marginalized communities.