Flamengo takes young essay contest winners on a visit to Maracanã
Essay contest promoted by the club's Social Responsibility Department works on the theme 'Combating Racism'
By Ivaldo Lobato - in
Last week, Flamengo took students from the Miguel Ramalho Novo Municipal School on a special visit to Maracanã Stadium as part of the "Future of the Nation" project, promoted by the club's Social Responsibility Department. The initiative, which this year focused on combating racism, rewarded the authors of the best essays on the topic and their classes with an unforgettable experience at the temple of Brazilian football.
During the tour, the students were guided by professionals from Flamengo's Educational Department of Historical Heritage, who provided a deep dive into the history of football and reflections on the importance of combating racial prejudice on and off the field. The activity reinforced the Mais Querido's commitment to promoting equality, combating structural racism, and building a more just and egalitarian society.
The students toured historic spaces at Maracanã, such as the Walk of Fame, the locker rooms, the mixed zone, and finally, the pitch, where they sang the red-and-black anthem with emotion. The visit ended in the press conference room, with smiles, applause, and the certainty that football is also a space for transformation.
The winning essays conveyed messages about the reality of racism in the lives of participants, even young ones. One of the essays, written as a song by 14-year-old Daniel Jorge Rodrigues, raised the question with the verse: "Dude, what about this 'thing' of judging by color? Just because I'm 'different,' do you hold a grudge?" Student Milenna da Costa dos Santos, 14, wrote: "Respect above all else. We should never disrespect anyone; we must be conscientious and ethical."
Through the "Future of the Nation" project in 2024, Flamengo promoted themes such as diversity, respect, and citizenship in more than 280 essays written by young people aged nine to 14 from 15 schools and social institutions in Rio de Janeiro. Schools interested in participating in future editions of the "Future of the Nation" project can contact us by email responsabilitysocial@flamengo.com.br.