Capoeira it is a cultural expression of Afro-Brazilian resistance, unity, and identity. Mestre Meinha’s academy in São Paulo was a home to this tradition, a place where generations of students learned not just Capoeira, but history, discipline, and community values.

The São Paulo government without warning demolished Mestre Meinha’s academy, destroying instruments, historical artefacts, and years of cultural heritage. 

The local authorities did not present any prior notice, legal documentation, or justification for this violent act. This was more than a demolition—it was an attack on Capoeira itself and an act of cultural erasure.

To: The Mayor of São Paulo, The São Paulo City Council, The Secretary of Culture, The Brazilian Ministry of Culture, UNESCO, and all organizations committed to cultural heritage preservation.

We, the undersigned, call for justice and immediate action regarding the unjust demolition of Mestre Meinha’s Capoeira academy in São Paulo, Brazil.

Capoeira is a vital cultural expression of Afro-Brazilian heritage, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The destruction of Mestre Meinha’s academy is an attack on Capoeira itself and a disregard for the cultural rights of the Afro-Brazilian community.

OUR DEMANDS:

1. Public Accountability – The São Paulo government must provide a transparent explanation for the destruction of the academy, including why no prior warning or official documentation was provided to Mestre Meinha and his students.
2. Restitution and Rebuilding – The city must take responsibility for the unjust demolition and support the reconstruction of Mestre Meinha’s academy in a suitable location, restoring the instruments, historical artefacts, and teaching environment.
   
   
3. Protection of Cultural Spaces – We demand legal protections for Capoeira academies and other cultural centers to prevent future violations against Afro-Brazilian cultural heritage.
   
   
4. Recognition of Capoeira as Cultural Patrimony – The Brazilian government and international organizations must reaffirm Capoeira’s status as a protected cultural practice and enforce safeguards against actions that undermine its continuity.
   
   
5. Justice and Compensation – All material damages, including stolen or destroyed property, must be addressed, and those responsible are held accountable.

We urge cultural institutions, Capoeira groups, human rights organizations, and individuals worldwide to stand with Mestre Meinha and demand justice.