The moment their feet hit the Brazilian shores, many Africans escaped into the wilderness to avoid bondage. Others followed as they were able to escape their captors. They formed communities now known as the ‘Quilombo’ (place of refuge). It is believed that scores of Quilombos remain today, some yet hidden from the outside world.

A knowledgeable and articulate leader of the community welcomed us into the church building and, in the grand tradition of the African griot, told the story of the establishing of Quilombos and how they fare today.

He spoke with the wisdom and poise of an elder statesman, yet was only 25 years of age. His knowledge of governance, ecology, botany, spelunking (exploring caves) and more was vast. We were captivated by his presentation.