The connections to Drag Pedagogy, Capoeira, and Black joy: An Autoethnographic Journey to a Salvador Bahia

• In Event: Sashay, You Stay: Uplifting Drag Pedagogies in the Era of Drag Bans

Abstract

In Salvador de Bahia, I experienced the vibrant intersections of drag pedagogy, capoeira, and Black joy, revealing how these elements collectively enrich cultural and educational experiences. This presentation delves into how drag pedagogy, with its focus on performance and identity, aligns with the rhythmic, historical practice of capoeira, both fostering a profound sense of community and resilience. Through my personal narrative, I highlight how these practices celebrate the Black joy or others as well as my Black joy, serving as powerful tools for empowerment and resistance. The study underscores the transformative potential of these cultural expressions in promoting solidarity, creativity, and a deeper understanding of identity within marginalized communities, offering valuable insights for educators and cultural practitioners.

Author

• Cleveland Hayes, Indiana University - Indianapolis