A presença da literatura negra na formação do imaginário da criança e no combate ao racismo na educação infantil.

Abstract

This article addresses the challenge of confronting racism in early childhood, focusing on the role of Black literature in shaping children's imaginations. The study’s general objective was to foster discussion about racism in early childhood education through literary mediation using books authored by Black writers and/or featuring Black protagonists. Specific objectives included understanding how racism manifests in children's imaginations and how representations formed in childhood influence the perception of others; contributing to the development of identities—of the self, the other, and the collective—and respect for differences; and expanding access to books authored by Black writers and featuring Black protagonists. The research employed a qualitative approach based on a literature review covering early childhood education, literary mediation, and children's literature, alongside fieldwork with children aged 4 and 5. Activities included discussion circles and literary mediation sessions using books carefully selected from the collection of the *Laboratório de Infâncias, Arte e Formação de Professores* (Laboratory of Childhood, Art, and Teacher Education). The results demonstrated that children's literature serves as a powerful ally in confronting racism, contributing to anti-racist educational practices starting in early childhood education.