Quilombola Nego Bispo's 2023 Book Challenges Modernity's Canons

Antônio Bispo dos Santos, known as Nego Bispo, critiques modernity's humanism in his 2023 book 'A terra dá, a terra quer,' published by Ubu and Piseagrama. Born in 1959 in the quilombo Saco Curtume, São João do Piauí, he was the first in his family to become literate. The 109-page publication, illustrated by Santídio Pereira, introduces concepts like 'afroconfluences' and 'counter-colonialism' from his experiences. He argues that urban life fosters alienation and fear, while commodified art blocks 'the conversation of souls.' Bispo also criticizes social housing programs like 'Minha Casa, Minha Vida' for ignoring local knowledge. His ideas align with indigenous thinkers Ailton Krenak and Davi Kopenawa, emphasizing coexistence with nature. In a 2023 podcast episode for ocareté, he described public education as colonialist for not teaching survival in biomes like the Caatinga. His voice is seen as essential for rethinking concepts beyond universities and political parties in Brazil's democratic normalization.