Searching for Iemanjá: Thomas Jean Lax on Brazil's Political Dynamics and Art

From New York City, Thomas (T.) Jean Lax reflects on his six-week expedition through Brazil in early 2020, where he engaged with artists and cultural figures to explore the influence of political issues on daily life. He draws comparisons between Brazil and the United States, highlighting their histories as former slave societies with significant populations and rich cultural traditions. Both nations have recorded the highest global rates of Covid-19 cases and fatalities, revealing governance that disproportionately endangers Black lives. In response to state-sanctioned killings of Black individuals, including João Pedro Matos Pinto, George Floyd, and others, protests have erupted. Lax dedicates his essay to the Afro-Brazilian deity Iemanjá and those who inspired him, aiming to highlight cultural resources for transformation. This piece was published by Afterall on March 17, 2022, and is exclusive to subscribers.