Material proposes the rediscovery of the place from an Afrocentric perspective and in connection with the region of Little Africa, promoting reflection on the formation of Brazil
Rio de Janeiro - Valongo Wharf, which today (July 9th) celebrates four years as a World Heritage Site, can now be explored from anywhere in Brazil through the “Wharf of Ideas.” The educational program produced a short documentary, as well as classes and articles that can be accessed on the project's website and social media. The workshops were led by a team of archaeologists, museum education experts, literature and history scholars, and representatives from institutions in the Little Africa region.
The territory, located in the port region of Rio de Janeiro, is home to historical sites such as Pedra do Sal, the Instituto dos Pretos Novos, Casa da Tia Ciata, and the Valongo Wharf itself. The film presents this history from an Afrocentric perspective, focusing on the role of enslaved Africans who arrived in Brazil, settled there, worked, and shaped Brazil through their knowledge, culture, and resistance.
In addition to the video, a publication compiling articles from workshops offered to educators in the public and private school systems of Rio de Janeiro will also be available. The texts are authored by the educational coordinators of “Cais de Ideias,” Luís Araújo and Jessica Balbino, as well as researchers, writers, and guests representing cultural institutions of Pequena África (Little Africa). There were 16 virtual workshops, more than 30 hours of instruction, and approximately 170 participating professionals. The workshops will be posted weekly on the project's YouTube channel. All material can be accessed through the website: caisdovalongo.org.br.
Addressing themes such as history, ancestry, culture, art, racism, education, and representation, the project is part of the region's recovery program carried out and managed by the Institute for Development and Management (IDG), with investment from State Grid Brazil Holding (SGBH). The Ancestralities Wharf project also includes the installation of railings, scenic lighting, signage, and exhibition panels at the Valongo Wharf site, which will begin after all necessary licenses are obtained from the relevant public agencies.
The project also has the support of the Rio de Janeiro City Hall, BNDES, IPHAN, the Special Secretariat of Culture, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Federal Government.
