Article January 1, 2001 Issue

Benedita da Silva,

Vice-governor

with contributions from Benedita da Silva—Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Today, you see women in areas that were previously just for men. Women serve in the Brazilian Senate and in state government. I hope we'll have a woman president someday. Women are using their potential to create a country that is more just, less sexist, less racist, and that considers the citizen and his/her well-being as the pillar of the nation.

At this point, the black woman is at the bottom of Brazil's social pyramid. Above her is the black man, then the white woman, then the white man. If we hope to have equality between women and men, we must have faith. Spiritual strength is available to all who believe in it as a power for change. I know men and women who were lost — unemployed, without direction, without family — who found encouragement in spiritual strength. And they were transformed. I am a living witness of this. Spiritual power radically changed my life and enabled me to take part in government.

Reading the Bible has shown me that my ability comes from God. It shows me that women were not made to be submissive but were created for the glory of God. The Bible gives examples of women with important roles. Jesus was a friend of women and had great tenderness for them. I have “traveled” through the Bible, and when I look at my life, I see how the Bible has helped me overcome a lot. It has revealed what's inside me — the divine power, God, operating in my life. When I'm facing big difficulties, I talk to God. I invoke the tenderness and love of God as my companion, husband, and faithful friend.

About the author

Vice-governor da Silva began her career in politics some twenty years ago as a member of the city council in Rio de Janeiro. She was the first woman to hold this position. As vice-governor, she addresses problems facing children, blacks, and drug addicts.

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