Black candidates' coalition launched in São Paulo to boost political representation

The "Quilombo nos Parlamentos 2026" initiative, launched by the Coalizão Negra por Direitos (Black Coalition for Rights) in São Paulo, aims to boost Black representation in politics. The program seeks to articulate Black candidacies and address the significant underrepresentation of Black and mixed-race individuals in government.

The initiative has already gathered approximately 150 pre-candidates for the 2026 elections, surpassing the 100 registered in 2022. Participating parties include PT, Rede, PSOL, PC do B, PV, and PSB, with any candidate from any party able to join by signing a commitment letter.

Douglas Belchior, a leader from Uneafro Brasil and the Black Coalition for Rights, described the current underrepresentation as "scandalous." Federal Deputy Marina Silva (Rede) stressed that candidates, regardless of their party's political leaning, must commit to platforms focused on human rights, social justice, and combating inequality to advance historical reparations.

Notable attendees included federal deputies Benedita da Silva (PT), Talíria Petrone (PSOL), Erika Hilton (PSOL), Orlando Silva (PC do B), former minister Anielle Franco (PT), and state deputy Leci Brandão (PC do B). Leaders from the Black movement, such as Sueli Carneiro and Cida Bento, were also present.

Former minister Fernando Haddad (PT) questioned the disparity between the Black population percentage and their representation in Parliament, urging voters to seek balance. Leci Brandão expressed optimism for a future Black Parliament, stating, "Brazil is Black, peripheral, and of the terreiro (spiritual ground)." The event featured the presentation of the "Quilombo nos Parlamentos" Manifesto and the signing of a Commitment Letter by candidates, reinforcing the movement's principles for the 2026 electoral cycle.