Translation & Access
a reflection by Carla Locatelli Dinguêra
Hey Vadiadores!
Happy to see you here.
Our Coletivo has had many thoughtful conversations about language access and translation. Through our collective experience, we have come to recognize the need for a different approach to translation during sessions. We believe that word-for-word translation of sessions led in Portuguese can interrupt an important flow, both for the guest sharing their knowledge and for participants engaging with it. Many of our guests weave stories, concepts, and experiences together in ways that require space, rhythm, and continuity. Frequent interruption can make it more difficult to follow the circularity and depth of what is being offered.
This approach can also impact those who already understand Brasilian Portuguese, the language spoken in Capoeira, by disrupting their own process of learning and connection. Additionally, those serving as translators often miss the opportunity to fully receive and internalize the teachings themselves, as they are focused on translating rather than learning alongside everyone else. We also see this as an invitation to cultivate deeper listening, greater awareness of body language and context, and creative ways of engaging with knowledge beyond direct translation. At the same time, we hope it encourages all of us involved in Capoeira to take responsibility for learning Brasilian Portuguese as our practice deepens and our understanding of the culture continues to grow.
With this in mind, we will not be providing word-for-word translation during sessions. As capacity allows, we will share session themes and key topics in advance. We encourage participants to think creatively about how they can support their own understanding in ways that align with the values shared above. We also ask that any audio recording be discussed with and authorized by the session facilitator beforehand.
Our rodas de conversa will include more paraphrased translation and contextual support than the sessions themselves, but we still encourage everyone to come prepared with whatever tools or resources they may need to support their participation. We also invite participants to reflect on the privilege of expecting English to be the default language of access. Part of engaging with Afro-Indigenous Brasilian knowledge systems is embracing the cultural and collective responsibility of decentering English, challenging colonial habits of consumption, and remaining open to learning through relationship, context, and language itself.
Finally, to all the translators who have supported Capoeira gatherings over the years: we see you, we value your labor, and we deeply appreciate the knowledge, care, and presence you bring. Too often, your contributions are received without acknowledgment. We want to take a moment to thank you for the vital role you play in our community.
Com carinho e respeito,
Dinguêra
30 de Maio de 2026
Happy to see you here.
Our Coletivo has had many thoughtful conversations about language access and translation. Through our collective experience, we have come to recognize the need for a different approach to translation during sessions. We believe that word-for-word translation of sessions led in Portuguese can interrupt an important flow, both for the guest sharing their knowledge and for participants engaging with it. Many of our guests weave stories, concepts, and experiences together in ways that require space, rhythm, and continuity. Frequent interruption can make it more difficult to follow the circularity and depth of what is being offered.
This approach can also impact those who already understand Brasilian Portuguese, the language spoken in Capoeira, by disrupting their own process of learning and connection. Additionally, those serving as translators often miss the opportunity to fully receive and internalize the teachings themselves, as they are focused on translating rather than learning alongside everyone else. We also see this as an invitation to cultivate deeper listening, greater awareness of body language and context, and creative ways of engaging with knowledge beyond direct translation. At the same time, we hope it encourages all of us involved in Capoeira to take responsibility for learning Brasilian Portuguese as our practice deepens and our understanding of the culture continues to grow.
With this in mind, we will not be providing word-for-word translation during sessions. As capacity allows, we will share session themes and key topics in advance. We encourage participants to think creatively about how they can support their own understanding in ways that align with the values shared above. We also ask that any audio recording be discussed with and authorized by the session facilitator beforehand.
Our rodas de conversa will include more paraphrased translation and contextual support than the sessions themselves, but we still encourage everyone to come prepared with whatever tools or resources they may need to support their participation. We also invite participants to reflect on the privilege of expecting English to be the default language of access. Part of engaging with Afro-Indigenous Brasilian knowledge systems is embracing the cultural and collective responsibility of decentering English, challenging colonial habits of consumption, and remaining open to learning through relationship, context, and language itself.
Finally, to all the translators who have supported Capoeira gatherings over the years: we see you, we value your labor, and we deeply appreciate the knowledge, care, and presence you bring. Too often, your contributions are received without acknowledgment. We want to take a moment to thank you for the vital role you play in our community.
Com carinho e respeito,
Dinguêra
30 de Maio de 2026