Speaking the language of their forefathers

Speaking the language of their forefathers, originally uploaded by carf.

Looking at Brazil “on the surface” one wouldn’t really believe that the greater portion of this country’s beautiful population have the tips of their roots grounded in the African continent, the majority being descendents of a long and tragic history of the Afro-Brazilian slave trade. This only becomes prevailingly visible in the underprivileged communities, where the desire and feeling for rhythm, music and dance seems a very natural way of life for most inhabitants. For us who work with children from such communities it’s tremendously satisfying to feel how strong and prevalent the African culture still is in the people, even though sadly, most are unconscious to the fact.

It’s almost as though the hands of their ancestors were directing the drums, as if saying: Never to forget your heritage!

Photo by Gregory J. Smith (CARF), São Paulo - BRAZIL.