Ines da Silva

Brazilian labor rights activist who fought for Afro-Brazilian workers' dignity during the early 20th century

Inês da Silva (1900-1968) was an unsung hero of Brazil's labor movement, dedicating her life to improving conditions for Afro-Brazilian domestic workers. Born in Rio de Janeiro to former slaves, she witnessed firsthand the systemic racism and exploitation faced by Black laborers. In 1932, she co-founded the Associação das Prostitutas, a pioneering organization defending sex workers' rights, but later shifted focus to domestic workers after witnessing their severe marginalization.

In 1944, she established the Centro de Proteção à Mulher Negra (Center for Protection of Black Women), providing legal aid and vocational training. Her relentless advocacy led to Brazil's first domestic workers' protection law in 1963, which mandated minimum wages and working hours. Despite facing frequent police harassment and societal stigma, Inês continued organizing until her death in 1968.

Her legacy is preserved through the Inês da Silva Memorial in Rio's Lapa district, and the Inês da Silva Act (2020), which expanded labor protections for domestic workers. Explore her story further on Brazilian Labor History Project.