Kedy Santos, speaking on the occasion of the International Day for People of African Descent this Sunday, emphasized the collective’s role as “a sphere of self-protection” for Afro-descendants. He highlighted that this community has been increasingly targeted through “a new, more extreme language” disseminated by “certain political factions.”
Santos pointed out that bureaucratic barriers and a “very retrograde” societal outlook continue to hinder the integration of Afro-descendant youth and adults into Portuguese society.
“Even those born in Portugal are often not recognized as fully Portuguese. Many are still perceived as foreigners, which undermines their integration and sense of belonging,” he stated.
The activist described the identity issue as complex, posing significant challenges for Afro-descendants born in Portugal, who often feel like “children of no land,” not fully accepted either in their parents’ country of origin or where they were born.
However, Santos considers this duality a potential asset, allowing young Afro-descendants to experience two cultures.
Regarding the new immigration law proposal, which could impact many Afro-descendant families, he called the movement’s opposition, labeling the measure as “xenophobic, unconstitutional, and populist.”
This proposal is seen as a severe regression in Portugal’s immigration policies, as it “revives past practices” such as not automatically recognizing nationality for children of immigrants born in the country.
“In the past, children of immigrants born here were not regarded as Portuguese citizens and had to be registered at embassies according to the laws of their parents’ countries of origin, and this law marks a regression in that area,” he added.
When asked about potential solutions to these challenges, Santos suggested that the first step should be “to criminalize racism (…) with an appropriate legal framework,” citing the United Kingdom and other developed nations that “have clear criminalization policies in this area.”
Another proposed solution is the increase of “more integrative policies that benefit the entire society.”
Santos also highlighted the disproportionate impact of the housing crisis on Afro-descendant families, many of whom live with low incomes and in precarious conditions.
“Many are in precarious jobs, paying very high rents with little social protection,” he noted.
He also criticized the media’s role in shaping narratives.
“When a crime committed by an immigrant is reported, the nationality and origin of the immigrant are mentioned, whereas crimes committed by nationals do not receive the same exposure,” in a strategy that, according to Santos, aims to influence public opinion.
The International Day for People of African Descent was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to honor the contributions of the African diaspora and combat racism and racial discrimination against Afro-descendants.
The day also serves to recognize the richness of African and Afro-descendant cultures and reinforce the commitment to equality, justice, and development for all people of African descent.
