Joy of Resistance
Join us for an inspiring evening that bridges academic theory and rhythmic practice.
We begin with a dialogue on decolonialism and solidarity with philosopher Monique Roelofs – researcher on decolonial, Black, and feminist aesthetics – and the Baque Flamingo collective, a collective fighting for queer liberation and anti-racism. Together, we'll explore what defines resistance today. We'll examine the power of marginalised voices and consider the complex connections between Dutch colonial history and Brazilian culture.
Shift from theory to embodiment with a Maracatu workshop led by Baque Flamingo. Originating as an Afro-Brazilian anti-colonial resistance, Maracatu is a percussive musical ensemble and a decolonial practice. By drumming together, we physically take up space and demonstrate how cultural expression serves as both a shield and a weapon.
This event takes place at VOX-POP (Binnengasthuisstraat 9), ground floor. Entry is free, however, we do kindly ask you to registrate.
Monique Roelofs is Professor of Philosophy of Art and Culture and Head of the Philosophy Department at the University of Amsterdam. Her work focuses on art and politics, feminist theory, Black aesthetics, race, and decolonial thought. She is the author of The Cultural Promise of the Aesthetic (2014), Arts of Address (2020), and Strange Tastes (2026). Currently she is thinking about joys of creative address and the humorous, life-giving pleasures of the strange.
Baque Flamingo is a collective founded in 2019, in which we play Maracatu de Baque Virado, from the Northeast of Brazil. We play and sing to bring about change, connection, and empowerment in ourselves and around us. We fight for queer liberation, anti-racism, economic equality, feminism, environmentalism, and religious freedom. Most importantly, we act in solidarity with communities that actively resist against structures of oppression. That is why it is so important to us to learn from Maracatu Nations and support their continued manifestation and resistance.