- country:Brazil
- region:Bahia
- style(s):Brazilian
- label:AFGA Produções
- type:Big Band
- artist contact:AFGA Produções
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Founded in November 1974 by Antonio Carlos dos Santos Vovô, Ilê Aiyê stands out as the first Afro bloco in Brazil, solidifying its place as one of the most powerful symbols of Black cultural resistance and empowerment in the country. Based in the Liberdade neighborhood of Salvador, one of the most predominantly Black areas of the Bahian capital, the bloco has a clear mission from the start: to celebrate African ancestry and promote Black representation.
More than just a Carnival group, Ilê Aiyê is a cultural and social movement that transcends the festive days. Its actions are deeply rooted in the fight against racism and the struggle for inclusion, drawing inspiration from global Black empowerment movements that emerged in the 1970s, such as the Négritude movement, the independence of African nations, and the activism of iconic figures like Angela Davis.
Since its first appearance at Salvador’s Carnival in 1975, Ilê Aiyê has brought a vibrant spectacle of music, dance, and art, all driven by Afro-Brazilian rhythms and a striking aesthetic that celebrates African heritage. The bloco distinguishes itself by being made up exclusively of Black participants—a stance that was controversial at the time of its founding, but which stood strong and became a proud symbol of resistance and identity.