No Power Is Authentic When It Is Based on Exclusion and Silencing: Gender-Based Political Violence Against Black Women in Brazil [OPINION]

Despite Brazil's progress in political representation, Black women continue to encounter systemic barriers, particularly in the form of gender-based political violence. This insidious issue, rooted in historical racism and misogyny, has evolved into a pervasive and destructive force, silencing Black women from participating fully in the political sphere.

The phenomenon, known as misogynoir, combines racism and misogyny to create a unique and intensified form of oppression. Black women are disproportionately targeted in both physical attacks and the digital realm, where hate speech, disinformation, doxing, and deepfakes create a hostile online environment. This digital violence extends beyond political spaces, affecting their personal lives and causing emotional distress, self-censorship, and, in some cases, withdrawal from politics.

Councilwoman Thais Ferreira, a Black woman from Rio's periphery, exemplifies the challenges faced by Black women in politics. After experiencing obstetric racism that resulted in the loss of her child, she now chairs the Commission to Combat and Prevent Political Violence Against Women. Despite her efforts, Ferreira has faced constant threats, impacting her personal and family life. The consequences of this violence ripple beyond the political sphere, affecting the health and well-being of her loved ones.

Black people in decision-making roles are often subjected to symbolic exclusion, even in accessing campaign funding, which further deepens existing inequalities. This systemic violence not only undermines the electoral prospects of Black women but also perpetuates a culture of doubt about their legitimacy and credibility. The normalization of misogynoir-based political violence against Black women in Brazil demands urgent attention and action to ensure their full participation and representation in democratic processes.