Transforming practices: Racial literacy in institutional foster care

Abstract

This article discusses racial dynamics within the context of institutional care for adolescents in Brazil, shaped by a history of social inequality and racism. The research involved conducting racial literacy workshops with professionals in the field, aiming to enhance intervention practices. The outcomes of this group-based initiative revealed divergences in the understanding of racial literacy among practitioners, as well as institutional barriers to its effective implementation. However, the content analysis conducted post-intervention identified positive results with greater understanding and initiative on the part of the professional. It is urgent to incorporate racial literacy as a guideline in public social assistance policies and in high-complexity care services, in order to promote anti-racist practices and establish protective spaces for Black adolescentes.