On November 20th, Brazil celebrates the National Day of Zumbi dos Palmares and Black Consciousness, now recognized as a national holiday for the first time. Previously observed in only six states, the holiday was established nationwide following the sanctioning of Law No. 14,759 in December 2023 by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. This day honors the rich history of Afro-Brazilian culture and the enduring legacy of resistance against slavery.
The date commemorates the Quilombo dos Palmares, a refuge for escaped enslaved people founded around 1580 in present-day Alagoas. At its peak, it housed approximately 20,000 individuals. In 1694, the quilombo was destroyed, and its leader, Zumbi dos Palmares, was assassinated on November 20, 1695, marking this day as significant for the Afro-descendant population.
Celebrations include cultural events in Serra da Barriga, where the Quilombo was located, featuring maracatu performances, samba, reggae, and hip hop. The Ministry of Racial Equality has organized various activities across the country, including the Festival Zumbi Vive in São Luís, which honors Zumbi's legacy and promotes discussions on racial equality.
As Melina Freithas, the Secretary of Culture and Creative Economy of Alagoas, states, “The activities reflect our commitment to preserving and honoring the memory of the Quilombo dos Palmares and all it represents for the struggle and resistance of black people in Brazil.”