For a Black and Feminist Memory of Brazilian Activism: The Case of the Sueli Carneiro Archive

Abstract

The article presents the processes of creation and organization of the Sueli Carneiro Collection as a symbolic case of the preservation of Black memory in Brazil. The Casa Sueli Carneiro, an institution dedicated to the legacy of the philosopher and activist, has developed an innovative archiving process that combines the training of Black professionals, digitization, and public access. The text highlights, in its first and second sections, the specific features of the collection, which brings together personal documents, records of the Black and feminist movements, as well as Sueli Carneiro's intellectual production. Later, in the third section, we discuss the importance of personal collections and community archives in building counter-hegemonic historical narratives, and the need for specific public policies for their maintenance and dissemination. Finally, we argue that Black memory should be understood as collective heritage, and that promoting support mechanisms for its preservation is a fundamental step in rebalancing historical narratives and strengthen democracy and Human Rights.