Celebrating Antonieta de Barros, the first Black woman elected to the Brazilian Federal Congress

Antonieta de Barros was a pioneering journalist, educator, and social activist who dedicated her life to fighting for the rights and empowerment of women and people of color in Brazil. Born in 1901, she faced countless challenges as a woman and a person of color in a society that was deeply entrenched in patriarchy and racism. Nevertheless, she persevered and made a name for herself as a respected and influential figure in Brazil’s social and political landscape.

Antonieta began her career as a journalist in 1920, working for several prominent newspapers and magazines. In 1922, she founded “A Semana,” a weekly newspaper that focused on issues related to women and the arts. As the editor and director of “A Semana,” Antonieta used her platform to raise awareness about important social and political issues, such as women’s suffrage, education, and civil rights. She also used her newspaper to promote the work of up-and-coming artists and writers, helping to nurture and support Brazil’s cultural scene.

In addition to her work as a journalist, Antonieta was also an educator and a social activist. She founded the Antonieta de Barros School in 1930, which was one of the first institutions in Brazil to offer higher education to women. Through her school, Antonieta sought to empower and educate women, helping them to develop their skills and confidence so that they could play a more active role in society.

Despite the many obstacles she faced as a woman and a person of color in Brazil, Antonieta was a trailblazer and an inspiration to countless others. She was the first Black woman to be elected to the Brazilian Federal Congress, and she used her position to advocate for the rights and empowerment of marginalized communities. She was a fierce and tireless champion of social justice, and her work and legacy continue to inspire people around the world to this day.

As we remember Antonieta de Barros, it is important to reflect on her life and the many challenges she faced. Her story is a testament to the resilience, determination, and courage of the human spirit, and it serves as a reminder of the power we all have to make a difference in the world. Whether through journalism, education, or activism, Antonieta de Barros demonstrated that one person can truly make a difference, and her legacy continues to inspire and empower people of all ages and backgrounds.