Dancer Carla Perez addressed accusations of racism after climbing onto the shoulders of a black security guard during the farewell of her electric trio at Salvador Carnival. The incident happened on Sunday (February 15), and she issued an apology note on Monday (February 16), acknowledging the mistake and its symbolic impact.
Carla Perez, known for her work with the electric trio Algodão Doce (also referred to as Pipoca Doce), sparked controversy during Salvador Carnival. On Sunday, February 15, while leading the trio for the last time on the Circuito Osmar route, she climbed onto the shoulders of a black security guard to get closer to the child audience, due to her height. The video of the scene went viral on social media, leading to racism accusations for evoking symbols of historical inequalities.
On Monday, February 16, Carla Perez posted a note on her Instagram explaining her intent: “I climbed onto the security guard's shoulders to achieve physical contact and thus be closer to my children, at specific moments along the route, due to my stature.” She acknowledged the issue: “The image that remained is harsh, and I recognize that. Even though the intention was good, the scene reproduces symbologies that cross our society. It refers to historical inequalities that structure our country and that should never be naturalized. Nothing justifies it. Absolutely nothing.”
In her full statement, she highlighted the Carnival's context: “The Carnival of Salvador, the world's largest street party, is made predominantly by black people and for black people. It is an expression of resistance, culture, and power. I am aware of the historical responsibility this carries. I erred. I recognize it.” Carla Perez apologized directly and sincerely, stating: “I apologize in a direct and sincere way. Recognizing the error is my first step. The second is to act.” She reaffirmed her commitment: “And I reaffirm my unwavering commitment to combat any practice or symbology that reinforces structural racism.”
The note ended with thanks: “Here I conclude, emphasizing my apology and with my heart full of love, still very emotional about yesterday's farewell. I thank everyone's understanding.” The episode underscores discussions on racial representations in cultural events like Carnival.
