The Mae Preta was used as a powerful symbol for the Brazilian nation yet her voice is missing from discussions about race and belonging. Write an op-ed or opinion editorial from the perspective of a Mae Preta to the black male intellectuals who have chosen to use her as a symbol. Make sure you use first person. Read op-ed pieces from respected newspapers like The Washington Post, New York Times, and Chicago Tribune to get a feel for the format and tone of the assignment. Consider the role of white women, the role of black women, and the history of slavery in Brazil.