Angelitos Negros

The song 'Angelitos Negros' by Pasteles Verdes is a poignant plea for racial inclusion and equality. The lyrics address a painter, urging him to include black angels in his religious and artistic depictions. This request is a metaphor for broader societal inclusion, highlighting the often-overlooked contributions and worth of black individuals. The song challenges the painter's—and by extension, society's—tendency to idealize and prioritize whiteness, even in spiritual and sacred contexts.

The lyrics begin by acknowledging the painter's heritage and skill, but quickly shift to a critique of his exclusionary practices. The line 'Aunque la virgen sea blanca, pintale angelitos negros' (Even if the Virgin is white, paint black angels) underscores the idea that divinity and goodness are not confined to one race. The song emphasizes that black people, too, are deserving of heavenly recognition and love, as 'todos los negritos buenos' (all the good black people) also go to heaven.

The song's emotional core lies in its direct appeal to the painter's sense of love and fairness. By asking 'Pintor, si pintas con amor, por que desprecias su color?' (Painter, if you paint with love, why do you scorn their color?), the lyrics call out the hypocrisy of claiming to create art with love while simultaneously excluding an entire race. This powerful message is a call to action for artists and society alike to recognize and celebrate the beauty and worth of all people, regardless of their skin color.

'Angelitos Negros' is a timeless anthem that resonates with ongoing struggles for racial equality. Its message is as relevant today as it was when it was first written, reminding us of the importance of inclusivity and the need to challenge systemic biases in all forms of expression and representation.