Ana Maria Gonçalves Takes ABL Seat, Becoming Academy’s First Black Woman Member

Overview

• The Nov. 7 ceremony at the Petit Trianon in Rio formally installed the author in chair 33, succeeding linguist Evanildo Bechara.
• In her address, she asked “Why only now?” and pledged to promote diversity, greater openness to the public, and opportunities for other Black women.
• She wore a fardão made by artisans from the samba school Portela, the first time an ABL robe was produced by a samba school.
• Lilia Schwarcz received her, Ana Maria Machado placed the academic collar, and Gilberto Gil delivered the diploma, with entry and exit commissions of ABL members.
• A seated dinner for roughly 300 guests featured an African-inspired menu, as her acclaimed novel Um defeito de cor—also Portela’s 2024 parade theme—framed the night’s symbolism.