Fighting Racism and Discrimination in Brazil: Legislation and Institutional Action

Abstract

In recent years several actions were developed in Brazil in order to eliminate historical disparities, ensure equal treatment between blacks and whites, and to fight discrimination and racism. There have been legislative changes relating to the matter, new affirmative action policies, and public institutions that receive complaints against discriminatory acts were established. Our purpose is to promote a reflection on these measures, particularly considering the ten and more years of the implementation of affirmative actions. We would like to stress, however, that it is necessary to further confront the genesis and reproduction of racism and discrimination, rather than solely focus on its consequences.