In this episode we feature Marcelo Paixão, an economist, sociologist, and professor at UT-Austin. Professor Paixão discusses his academic journey, his transition to UT Austin, and his work on ethnic and racial equity through the LAESER Laboratory and the Brazil Center. He also shares insights from his tenure as president of the Brazilian Studies Association (BRASA) and explores the role of academia in promoting racial equity and addressing inequalities in Brazil and Latin America. 

In this episode we feature Dr. Nessette Falu, a Black queer feminist anthropologist and professor at UT-Austin. Dr. Falu discusses her academic journey, her connection to Brazil, and her research on the intersection of gynecology, Black queer identity, and medical ideologies. She also introduces her book “Unseen Flesh: Gynecology and Black Queer Worth Making in Brazil,” and her work at the Gxnecologx Justice Lab. 

Book “Unseen Flash”: https://www.amazon.com/Unseen-Flesh-Gynecology-Worth-Making-Brazil/dp/1478025182 

Gxnecologx Justice Lab: https://www.gxnecologx.org/ 

In this episode of “Conexões Brasil-Texas: Diálogos Acadêmicos sobre Cultura e Sociedade Brasileira,” we feature Dr. Orlando Kelm, a Professor of Hispanic Linguistics at the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Kelm discusses his academic journey, his interest in Portuguese Language and Brazilian culture, and his experiences integrating technology into language education. He also shares insights about his work with the Portuguese Flagship Program and his book series “The Seven Keys to Communicating”.

In this episode we feature Angelica Monteiro, an interdisciplinary movement artist, storyteller, and educator from the Brazilian Amazon who teaches at the Department of Theatre and Dance. Angelica discusses her journey as an educator and artist, how her upbringing in the Amazon influences her dance practices, and her innovative approach that blends street dance, Amazonian traditions, and contemporary movement. She also shares her experiences teaching at the University of Texas at Austin and her current and future projects focused on addressing social and environmental issues through dance.