Relações raciais e políticas de ação afirmativa para a população negra no Brasil

Abstract

This study aims to discuss the phases through which the approach of race relations in Brazil has passed and to demonstrate the necessity and importance of the implementation of affirmative action policies for the black Brazilian population, so as to promote the economic and social integration of this population. The study presents the main bases of justification and the objectives of affirmative action policies for the black population and analyzes some of the instruments used in the implementation of these policies in Brazil, besides discussing some of the most relevant controversies about affirmative action policies for the black population. It also discusses the role that the Brazilian Courts of Justice play in relation to affirmative action policies for the black population and the judicial controversy about the constitutionality of these policies, examined through the analysis of some judicial cases and court decisions. The study demonstrates the possibility of a positive decision from the Brazilian Supreme Court of Justice about affirmative action policies though the analysis of some public manifestations made by some important Justices from that Court, because the Brazilian Supreme Court itself hasn’t yet had the chance to decide officially about the subject. It also discusses the role of the Courts of Justice in the construction of a more democratic and integrated society in the Brazil.