Lilia Schwarcz, a 66-year-old historian, was inaugurated as a member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters in a ceremony held in Rio de Janeiro. The event was attended by prominent figures such as Minister Carmen Lúcia from the Supreme Federal Court, Minister Silvio Almeida from the Ministry of Human Rights, and BNDES president Aloizio Mercadante. Schwarcz’s new colleagues in the academy include actress Fernanda Montenegro, composer Gilberto Gil, and writers Ailton Krenak and Ruy Castro.
During the ceremony, Rosiska Darcy de Oliveira, an immortal member, described Schwarcz as an intellectual actively engaged in the fight against racism. Schwarcz, who now occupies Chair number 9, previously held by diplomat and historian Alberto da Costa e Silva, expressed her deep connection to Costa e Silva, whom she referred to as a “second father.” She highlighted his influence on her both emotionally and intellectually, especially in advocating for marginalized populations.
Schwarcz, known for her research and teaching, was elected by a majority of the academy members in March, becoming only the 11th woman to join the organization since its establishment in 1897. She emphasized the importance of public and private institutions supporting societal struggles for diversity and representation. Schwarcz also acknowledged the recent efforts by the academy to include more diverse voices, reflecting a shift towards inclusivity.
As a renowned author and winner of multiple Jabuti Awards, Schwarcz continues to contribute to the literary world with works that explore racial issues. Her upcoming book “Imagens da Branquitude” is set to be released in August, adding to her collection of influential publications. Alongside her writing career, Schwarcz played a pivotal role in co-founding the publishing house Companhia das Letras with her husband, Luiz Schwarcz.
The Brazilian Academy of Letters has faced scrutiny in recent years for its lack of diversity, prompting calls for greater inclusivity. While progress has been made, challenges remain in ensuring that the institution represents a wide range of voices. The presence of figures like Conceição Evaristo, a black writer, at Schwarcz’s inauguration signals a potential shift towards a more inclusive and representative academy.
Evaristo’s campaign for a seat in the academy in 2018, though unsuccessful, sparked important conversations about the need for diverse representation in such institutions. Her presence at Schwarcz’s ceremony indicates a growing recognition of the importance of including marginalized voices in spaces traditionally dominated by certain groups. The evolving composition of the academy reflects a broader societal push for equality and representation across various sectors.
In conclusion, Lilia Schwarcz’s induction into the Brazilian Academy of Letters marks a significant step towards greater diversity and inclusivity within the institution. Her appointment, along with the presence of other diverse voices, highlights the ongoing efforts to foster a more representative and inclusive literary community in Brazil. By expanding the range of perspectives and experiences within the academy, there is an opportunity to enrich the cultural landscape and elevate marginalized voices in the literary sphere.