The Construction of Citizenship and Equality in an Unequal and Racist Society: the dilemmas of afro-entrepreneurship in Brazil

Abstract

When studying the phenomenon of Afro-entrepreneurship, it is necessary to understand the structural aspects of contemporary Brazil, which must be contextualized and analyzed in light of its colonial history. In this regard, several questions arise: How can a historical perspective contribute to the understanding of Afro-entrepreneurship? How can marginalized groups, such as the Black population, be understood through the concepts of coloniality and race? How can progress be made in the construction of citizenship and equality within an unequal and racist society? What are the challenges and possibilities of Afro-entrepreneurship in Brazil? This theoretical essay seeks to understand Afro-entrepreneurship from a historical perspective within the socioeconomic formation of Brazilian capitalism, drawing on contributions from historical sociology concerning nation-building and citizenship. Finally, it presents the contributions of historical sociology and intersectionality as analytical tools for advancing the formulation of public policies on entrepreneurship aimed at promoting equity and the inclusion of this population.