Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival, renowned worldwide for its vibrant colours, pulsating rhythms, and a spectacle of cultural celebration, made a profound statement in 2024 by bringing the essence of the Amazon rainforest and its indigenous communities to the forefront. As the city immersed itself in festivities, six of Rio’s top samba schools transformed the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí into a verdant tableau vivant, paying homage to the lung of the planet and its original custodians.
Highlighting the evening was a poignant tribute to the Yanomami, Brazil’s largest Indigenous group, known for their deep connection to the Amazon rainforest. This gesture underscored the samba schools’ dedication to not only entertain but also educate and generate awareness about crucial environmental and social issues facing Brazil and the world.
In an emotionally charged homage, Salgueiro School dedicated its parade to the memory of British journalist Dom Phillips and Indigenous expert Bruno Pereira. Both were tragically killed in the Amazon in 2022, their deaths casting a global spotlight on the dangers faced by those fighting for environmental conservation and Indigenous rights in Brazil. The inclusion of Phillips’ wife, Alessandra Soares, in the parade, marked a powerful moment of remembrance and solidarity, bridging the gap between celebration and solemn tribute.
The Carnival’s thematic focus on the Amazon and its defenders served as a vibrant call to action, reminding attendees and viewers worldwide of the pressing need to protect these invaluable ecosystems and support the Indigenous communities that steward them. Through stunning floats, elaborate costumes, and captivating performances, the samba schools of Rio de Janeiro managed to encapsulate the beauty, complexity, and urgency of Amazon rainforest conservation.
As the 2024 Rio Carnival concluded, its legacy extended beyond the spectacle of music and dance. It left an indelible mark on the consciousness of those who witnessed it, elevating the global conversation on environmental preservation and the rights of Indigenous peoples. Through the universal language of art and celebration, Rio’s Carnival became a beacon of hope, solidarity, and action for the Amazon and its guardians.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Monday, April 29, 2024
