Registro civil

Suely Rodrigues' song "Registro civil" is a poignant commentary on the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities around the world. The lyrics list countries and regions known for their struggles with poverty, conflict, and social injustice, such as Ethiopia, Angola, Congo, Pakistan, India, Timor-Leste, Afghanistan, and various impoverished areas in Brazil like Rocinha and Guaribas. This global perspective underscores the universality of suffering and the shared plight of the underprivileged. The repeated question, "Mãe, será que vão matar esse dragão?!" ("Mother, will they kill this dragon?!"), symbolizes the overwhelming and seemingly insurmountable challenges these communities face, likening their struggles to battling a mythical beast.

The song delves into the personal and emotional impact of poverty through the eyes of a child. The child questions why their dreams and toys have been taken away, expressing a deep sense of loss and confusion. The lyrics touch on basic human needs, such as hunger and thirst, and the fear of being excluded from salvation due to their socioeconomic status. This fear is poignantly captured in the line, "Sonhei que pobre não podia entrar no céu" ("I dreamed that the poor couldn't enter heaven"). The child's questions about their identity and worth, such as whether they are ignored or incomplete, highlight the dehumanizing effects of poverty.

The song also critiques political promises and the exploitation of the poor for votes. The child recounts a man in a suit promising help in exchange for their mother's vote, a common scenario in many impoverished communities where politicians make empty promises to gain support. The repeated plea, "Vota nele que eu tô com fome" ("Vote for him because I'm hungry"), underscores the desperation and hope for change, even if it means placing trust in potentially unreliable leaders. Through "Registro civil," Suely Rodrigues gives a voice to the voiceless, shedding light on the urgent need for social justice and systemic change.