Brazilian, Black in Brazil

Introduction / History

Black Brazilians, also known as Afro-Brazilians, are descendants of enslaved Africans brought to Brazil between the 16th and 19th centuries during the Atlantic slave trade. Brazil received more Africans than any other country in the Americas, with estimates ranging from 4 to 5 million individuals. These Africans came primarily from West Africa (Yoruba, Fon, Igbo) and Central Africa (Bantu-speaking peoples from Angola, Congo, and Mozambique).
The primary language spoken by Black Brazilians is Portuguese, which has been affected by African languages such as Yoruba, Kimbundu, and Kikongo, contributing thousands of words to Brazilian Portuguese. Cultural expressions such as samba, capoeira, and Candomblé reflect this African heritage. A small number live in Argentina.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Black Brazilians live throughout the country, with significant populations in Bahia, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais. Many reside in urban neighborhoods, favelas, and rural quilombos—communities founded by escaped slaves. Cultural life is vibrant, with strong traditions in music, dance, cuisine, and festivals such as Carnival and Bahia's Afro-Brazilian celebrations.
Despite their cultural contributions, Black Brazilians face systemic inequality in education, employment, healthcare, and political representation. Income disparities persist, with Black workers earning significantly less than their white counterparts, even with similar qualifications. Social mobility is limited, and racial discrimination remains a daily reality.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The vast majority of Black Brazilians identify as Christian, and nearly one fourth are Evangelical. Many also practice Afro-Brazilian religions such as Candomblé and Umbanda, which blend African spiritual traditions with Catholicism and Spiritism.
Candomblé centers on the worship of orixás, spiritual beings associated with nature and human traits. Rituals involve music, dance, offerings, and spiritual possession. These religions have faced historical persecution and misrepresentation, but continue to thrive, especially in Bahia and Rio de Janeiro.

What Are Their Needs?

Access to quality education is essential to close achievement gaps and promote long-term opportunity. Economic empowerment initiatives are important to reduce income inequality and support entrepreneurship. Inclusion in healthcare systems is necessary to address disparities in treatment and outcomes. Legal protections and advocacy are vital to combat racial discrimination and promote social justice. Resources for discipleship and biblical teaching are needed to strengthen Christian faith and encourage spiritual growth. Recognition and preservation of Afro-Brazilian cultural heritage is crucial to affirm identity and dignity.

Prayer Points

Pray for a movement of spiritual renewal among Black Brazilian Christians, that their faith may grow deeper and more vibrant.
Ask God to raise up local leaders and pastors who can disciple others to disciple more people.
Pray for Black Brazilians to become an important part of the mission force in South America.
Intercede for the younger generation, that they may remain rooted in Christ and become agents of transformation.
Pray for unity among believers, and for the church to be a beacon of hope and reconciliation in Brazilian society.

Text Source:   Joshua Project