In a vibrant display of culture and tradition, Brazil celebrated National Orisa Day on March 21, 2024, with the African Cultural Center (Centro Cultural Africano) taking center stage in the festivities. This renowned organization, known for its dedication to preserving and promoting African heritage, stood out as devotees gathered to honor Orisa, the deity central to Yoruba traditional religion.
The event, held in the executive auditorium of the state Parliament (Alesp) in Sao Paulo, Brazil, was a fact to the growing recognition and appreciation of African spirituality in the country. Dignitaries from across the nation graced the occasion, underscoring the significance of the celebration.
Firmly supported by Onira Calçados, a leading outlet specializing in traditional Orisa attire, the program honored outstanding traditionalists from various religions of African origin. Participants from Ifa religion, Candomblé, Umbanda, and other diaspora versions of Yoruba traditional religion gathered to pay homage to Orisa and celebrate their shared cultural heritage.
The African Cultural Center, founded and led by Oba (Ogboni) Adekunle Aderonmu, played a pivotal role in organizing the event. A highlight of the program was the award ceremony, which recognized the contributions of traditionalists who have tirelessly preserved African religious practices despite centuries of repression.
According to Oba Adekunle Aderonmu, the establishment of National Orisa Day (Dia Internacional de Eliminação de Discriminação Racial/Religiosa/Etnia) represents a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle against religious and racial discrimination.
The festivities were marked by captivating performances, including inspiring songs by Olorin Oba Oodua, the Nigerian Fuji Maestro. KFA Valentine, with his rendition of the title song “Aboru Aboye,” captivated the audience, infusing the atmosphere with energy and enthusiasm.
Throughout the event, groups and dignitaries joined in traditional dances and eulogies dedicated to the Orisas, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Brazil’s African diaspora. Among the standout performers were Yoruba drummers led by Aztec, masters of the Ayans (talking drums), whose beats reverberated through the auditorium, transporting attendees to the heart of ancestral traditions.
The gathering brought together various organizations and communities, including the Egbe Omo Oodua in Brazil, the Nigerian community in Brazil (Nicom), Ile-Ola Omi Opo Araka, Egbe Ifa Osetura, Ogbemo, Ile Alaketu Ase Ayra, and Ancestral-Axis, publisher of Ancestral News. Their collective presence underscored the unity and solidarity among devotees of African spirituality in Brazil.
As the celebration concluded, the African Cultural Center reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting African heritage, ensuring that the legacy of Orisa and the traditions of the Yoruba people continue to thrive in Brazil and beyond.
The significance of Orisa Day extends beyond its cultural and religious dimensions, serving as a platform for raising awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by Afro-Brazilian communities. From systemic racism to socio-economic inequalities, the struggles of the Afro-Brazilian population remain ever-present, despite decades of activism and advocacy.
In this context, the celebration of Orisa Day takes on added significance, offering a space for reflection, empowerment, and solidarity. Through cultural expression and collective action, participants reaffirm their resilience and determination to create a more just and equitable society for all Brazilians.
The African Cultural Center, with its tireless efforts to promote African culture and traditions, plays a crucial role in this ongoing struggle. By providing a platform for cultural exchange, education, and community engagement, the center empowers Afro-Brazilians to reclaim their heritage and identity in a society that often marginalizes and erases their contributions.
In addition to its cultural programming, the African Cultural Center also serves as a hub for social and economic development initiatives aimed at uplifting underserved communities. From vocational training programs to micro-enterprise opportunities, the center provides tangible support to individuals and families striving to build a better future.
Furthermore, the center actively collaborates with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and international partners to advocate for policies that address the root causes of inequality and discrimination. By amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and advocating for their rights, the center contributes to the broader movement for social justice and human rights in Brazil.
Looking ahead, the African Cultural Center remains committed to expanding its reach and impact, serving as a beacon of hope and empowerment for Afro-Brazilians across the country. Through education, advocacy, and cultural expression, the center continues to inspire positive change and build a more inclusive and equitable society for future generations.
As we reflect on the significance of Orisa Day and the contributions of the African Cultural Center, let us reaffirm our commitment to honoring and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Brazil’s African diaspora. By coming together in celebration and solidarity, we can create a brighter and more inclusive future for all Brazilians, rooted in the values of equality, justice, and dignity for all.
