First, we need to ask ourselves: Why Brazil?
For Challenge Xodó, we are running for a special cause: to help children in Brazil.
We chose to support ACONERUQ (Associação das Comunidades Negras Rurais Quilombolas do Maranhão).
Who is ACONERUQ?
ACONERUQ is a Brazilian, non-profit organization created on May 12 1996, representing the vast majority of Quilombolas.
What is a Quilombola?
A Quilombola is an Afro-Brazilian resident of Quilombo settlements first established by slaves in Brazil who escaped from slave plantations that existed up until the abolition of slavery.
ACONERUQ includes representatives of the Quilombola communities of 23 states. The Quilombola movement is recognized as one of the most active agents of the black movement in Brazil and introduces a debate that seeks to strengthen the perspective that this country has a great ethnic plurality.
ACONERUQ’s objectives are:
- The implementation of sustainable development projects;
- Implementation of public policies for Quilombo communities;
- Education that is consistent with the way of life in the Quilombos;
- The autonomy and importance of Quilombola women and children;
- Promotion of the good and fair use of their territory and natural resources.
Currently, there are many Quilombola families in a bad economic situation and a state of vulnerability, due to the worsening and long duration of the pandemic. They cannot sell products from their plantations or carry out their usual services.
For these reasons, Run4aChild will be focusing on food baskets, books, and toys, along with water purifier filters to help these Quilombola communities to get back on their feet.
Check out more about ACONERUQ on their WEBSITE and make sure to like and follow them on FACEBOOK.
Also, don’t forget that you are running for a child, you are running for a major cause! Watch our Xodó Challenge video here.
And most important: Don’t forget to share your videos, photos, or feelings with us. In order for our team to see it, make sure you use the hashtag #xodóchallenge.
Together, we can make a difference.
Your Run4aChild Team