Ana Maria Gonçalves Is Sworn In to Brazil's Academy of Letters as First Black Woman

Overview

• Ana Maria Gonçalves formally took chair 33 at the Petit Trianon on November 7, succeeding linguist Evanildo Bechara.
• Lilia Schwarcz delivered the reception speech, Ana Maria Machado placed the academic collar, and Gilberto Gil presented the diploma, with entry and exit commissions named.
• In her address, she questioned the Academy’s long exclusion of women and Black writers, credited the 2018 debate around Conceição Evaristo’s bid, and voiced hope to open doors for others.
• The ceremonial fardão was produced by artisans from the samba school Portela, a first for the ABL and a nod to her novel Um defeito de cor, Portela’s 2024 carnival theme.
• An African-inspired dinner for about 300 guests and a musical cortejo followed the rites; at 54, she is the youngest current member and the 13th woman elected.