How Didi's Art and Activism Are Redefining Black Queer Visibility in Lisbon

Didi, a Brazilian DJ and multidisciplinary artist, has spent nearly eight years in Portugal reshaping Black queer visibility. His journey began with a life-changing trip to New York through the Science Without Borders programme. Now, through initiatives like UNA and the Afrontosas Collective, he is challenging academic and cultural barriers in Lisbon. Didi first made waves in 2009 when he became one of the few Black students to earn a law degree in Brazil. But his path shifted after visiting New York, where he encountered vibrant Black queer communities. That experience led him to Lisbon in pursuit of a master's degree focused on Black movements from a queer perspective.

Academia proved difficult. Many institutions resisted his research topics, leaving him questioning where Black queer voices were in Portugal. From his first day in the country, he asked, *'Where are they? Where are the Black queer people?'* In Lisbon, he found belonging through his partner and the Afrontosas Collective—a group he co-founded. The collective uncovered long-standing histories of Black queer resistance, proving these presences had always existed, even if overlooked. His work with UNA (*União Negra das Artes*) continues this mission, creating spaces for affective encounters and artistic expression. Today, Didi remains a key figure in Lisbon's cultural scene. As a DJ and artist, he blends activism with creativity, pushing for greater representation in both academic and artistic fields.

Didi's efforts have brought hidden histories to light while fostering new spaces for Black queer artists. His work with Afrontosas and UNA has reshaped conversations in Portugal, proving that these communities have always been part of the country's story. The impact of his research, art, and activism continues to grow, leaving a lasting mark on Lisbon's cultural landscape.