Haitian Migration and Structural Racism in Brazil

Abstract

AbstractThe aim of this chapter is to introduce the experiences of Haitian migrants within the specific context of Brazilian structural racism. We provide an initial discussion on the socio-historical foundations of Brazilian structural racism, in articulation with sexism and institutional patrimonialism—other two structuring components of Brazilian inequalities. After that we provide an overview on Haitian migration in Brazil and reflect on the findings of a study on Haitian migrants, with special attention to their views and experiences of racism in Brazil. Experiences of racism are distinct between Brazil and Haiti. Our findings suggest the need to better understand how experiences in diverse socio-cultural and political contexts may influence perceptions and even supposedly “naïve” views on race and inequalities. Our findings also point out to the need to acknowledge the distinct strategies adopted by Black migrants in the context of structural racism because the issue of race adds complex layers to their struggles and access to rights.