A (re)educação das relações étnico-raciais de pessoas idosas no Pró-Maior

Abstract

This research sought to understand how elderly people can re-educate their ethnic-racial relations and revise their racist perceptions, based on the experience of a university program aimed at this public. The study took place at the Origem workshop, which is part of the Pró-Maior Program at the University of Vale do Rio dos Sinos. The main objective of the research was to understand how the Origem workshop contributed to the re-education of the ethnic-racial relations of the elderly participants. By articulating the theme of education for ethnic-racial relations, it became clear how education and culture can and should also be worked on with the elderly population, promoting racial equity. Methodologically, this study is qualitative in nature and its procedure was the systematization of experiences, with data collected from the participants' reports, observations recorded in field diaries and interactions during the workshop. The results showed that the activities of the Origem workshop were effective in re-educating ethnic-racial relations, promoting awareness of racism and fostering positive changes in attitudes and behavior. The Pro-Major Program benefited from raising awareness and transforming attitudes, strengthening the participants' sense of belonging, social inclusion, valuing diversity, professional training and empowerment. It is suggested that future research explore the experiences of older people in different contexts, test new educational methodologies in inclusion and racial equity programs, and monitor the implementation of the workshop in different regions of the country. It also highlights the need for public policies and educational programs that include older people and directly address ethnic-racial issues, contributing to the construction of a fairer and more inclusive society.