Brazilian model faces severe racist attacks, death threats after displaying African heritage in public in 2025
Model Josi Albuquerque has been subjected to a torrent of racist attacks and threats, including explicit death and rape threats, after sharing a video of herself wearing African ancestral clothing inside a shopping mall in Goiânia, Goiás, in 2025. The disturbing online abuse extended to her one-year-old daughter, prompting widespread condemnation.
Albuquerque promptly reported the incidents to the authorities, filing a formal police complaint documenting the crimes she and her family endured. The severity of the threats highlighted a disturbing undercurrent of racial animosity.
The viral video, which ignited the online vitriol, was reportedly recorded shortly after Albuquerque and other women participated in the Miss Afro 2025 contest held in the capital. The post was intended as a celebration of her heritage.
Intense online backlash follows cultural video
The video depicted Albuquerque confidently showcasing her ancestral attire within a public commercial space, a seemingly simple act that tragically triggered an outpouring of hate. The incident underscored the ongoing challenges faced by individuals who express their cultural identity in environments where racial intolerance persists.
As the video circulated across social media platforms, the comments section quickly filled with derogatory and threatening messages. This rapid escalation from cultural display to severe online harassment demonstrated the alarming speed at which digital spaces can become conduits for deeply rooted prejudice.
Model’s powerful statement against hate
“This much gratuitous hate shows how bitter people still are and how they have lost love,” Albuquerque stated, reflecting on the painful experience. Her words underscored the emotional toll of the attacks, emphasizing a societal deficit in empathy.
She further articulated a critical insight: “Nobody is born racist, they learn it, so they can learn to respect too.” This perspective frames racism not as an inherent trait but as a learned behavior, thereby suggesting that change and education are possible avenues for overcoming prejudice.
Albuquerque’s statement serves as a poignant call for societal introspection, urging communities to address the roots of intolerance and actively foster environments of understanding and mutual regard. Her resilience in the face of such adversity has resonated with many.
Police investigation underway in Goiânia
Authorities in Goiânia have officially registered the case with the State Delegation for Victims of Racial Crimes and Intolerance (DEACRI). The specialized unit is now actively investigating the threats and racist attacks targeting Josi Albuquerque and her daughter.
The involvement of DEACRI signals the serious nature with which the local police are treating the allegations. Investigations are currently focusing on identifying the perpetrators behind the anonymous threats and ensuring accountability for the hate speech and criminal actions.
Community and legal silence on the threats
Efforts to obtain comments from the lawyer representing the Association of Entrepreneurs and Afro-Entrepreneurship Empowerment (Ascenda) and from Nyna Koxta, the organizer of the Miss Afro 2025 parade, were unsuccessful as of the latest update in 2025. This lack of immediate public response from key community and legal stakeholders can sometimes complicate public discourse and support for victims in such sensitive cases. The silence may reflect the complexities involved in addressing widespread online harassment, but it also highlights a potential gap in immediate advocacy for those targeted by racial violence. The ongoing investigation aims to gather comprehensive evidence, which is crucial for building a strong legal case against those responsible for the hate-fueled campaign.
Broader context of racial discrimination in Brazil
Brazil, despite its diverse population, continues to grapple with systemic racism and racial discrimination. Incidents like the one involving Josi Albuquerque frequently bring to light the deeply entrenched prejudices that exist within society, often amplified by online platforms.
The legal framework in Brazil categorizes acts of racism and racial injury as serious criminal offenses, with significant penalties for those found guilty. These laws are designed to protect individuals from discrimination and ensure justice.
Social media platforms, while facilitating connections, also provide anonymity that can embolden individuals to express hate speech they might otherwise suppress. This digital amplification makes it crucial for platforms and authorities to collaborate effectively in combating online racism.
Reporting these crimes is a vital step for victims, not only for their personal sense of justice but also for contributing to a larger effort to hold perpetrators accountable and gather data that can inform future preventative measures and policy changes against racial intolerance.
Calls for solidarity and respect
The incident involving Josi Albuquerque serves as a stark reminder of the persistent need for solidarity, education, and widespread respect across society. Her courageous stance against gratuitous hate reinforces the importance of challenging racial prejudice wherever it appears. Supporting victims and promoting cultural understanding are essential steps in fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment for all citizens.
Josi Albuquerque, racist attacks, African heritage, Goiânia racism, Miss Afro 2025, online threats, racial discrimination Brazil
