Women and Archive Science in Brazil

gender and the pioneering imaginary through a socio-historical lens

Abstract

This study problematizes the construction of the imaginary that positions women as pioneers in the development of Archival Science in Brazil, questioning whether such symbolic protagonism reflects their actual institutional recognition. The central thesis argues that, although women have played a significant role in consolidating the Brazilian archival field, their contributions have historically been silenced by patriarchal, racist, and classist structures permeating institutions and knowledge production.

The general objective is to critically analyze the presence and recognition of women in Archival Science and Brazilian archives. Specifically, it seeks to: (1) reflect on the intersections of gender, race, and class in the trajectory of Archival Science; (2) identify women’s contributions to the formation of the field; and (3) problematize hegemonic discourses on protagonism and representativity.

The methodology is qualitative, comprising a literature review, analysis of specialized journals, and investigation of women’s participation in leadership positions and archival associations. The results indicate that, despite their significant historical involvement, women — especially Black women — still face obstacles to visibility and institutional recognition. However, the recent appointments of Black female managers to the National Archive represent important advances in the democratization of memory and the strengthening of a critical, plural, and intersectional Archival Science.