THE IMPORTANCE OF AFRO-BRAZILIAN CULTURE IN EDUCATION

Abstract

The present study addresses the importance of Afro-Brazilian culture in education, highlighting its relevance in the formation of national identity and in the development of inclusive pedagogical practices. It is a theoretical study based on a literature review and analysis of educational legislation, especially Law 10.639/03, which makes the teaching of Afro-Brazilian history and culture mandatory in schools. The objective of this work is to analyze how the inclusion of this theme in the school environment contributes to the appreciation of cultural diversity, the strengthening of students’ identity, and the promotion of an anti-racist education. The methodology adopted consisted of the analysis of academic productions, official documents, and pedagogical experiences reported in the literature. The results indicate that the inclusion of Afro-Brazilian culture in the school curriculum promotes the development of students’ self-esteem, broadens critical awareness, and fosters more respectful relationships in the school environment. It is concluded that the appreciation of this culture in education not only fulfills a legal requirement, but also constitutes a fundamental instrument for building a fairer, more equitable society that is conscious of its historical and cultural diversity.