On Saturday, February 26, 2011, Dr. Elaine Rocha, Lecturer in Latin American History, Cave Hill Campus, and MPhil Candidate, Frederick Alleyne presented "'Millie Gone to Brazil': Barbadian Migration to Brazil in the Early 20th Century. Co-hosted by the Department of History and Philosophy and the Embassy of Brazil, the Special History Forum presentation attracted over 100 members of the public to hear about this new area of research in migration history as part of the UWI's Research Week activities.
Audience members learned about the challenges Barbadians and other West Indian migrants experienced when they arrived in Brazil to work in the railway industry in the early 20th century. Holding on tightly to their English linguistic heritage, Barbadianos and their descendants were often ostracized and were victims of racism and classism in Brazil's so-called "racial democracy". Settling mostly in Porto Velho, the Barbadiano population established a settlement known as Barbados Town.
The presentation was well supported by an an enthusiastic audience who welcomed the introduction to little known connection between Brazil and Barbados. The Brazilian Ambassador to Barbados extended a hearty welcome to the event.
Dr. Rocha and Mr. Alleyne are welcoming any Barbadians (or Eastern Caribbean persons) who have a Barbadian connection to share their experiences to help them in their effort to document the migration. If you wish to learn more or send some information, please e-mail brazguyresearch@hotmail.com.
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