OVERCOMING HISTORICAL BARRIERS

THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE QUOTA LAW AND THE PURSUIT OF SOCIAL JUSTICE IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITIES OF RIO GRANDE DO SUL

Abstract

Introduction: The affirmative action policies have been instituted in Brazilian public universities for over 10 years. This policy aims to democratize access for students from public schools, also including ethnic-racial and per capita income criteria. Objective: To analyze the progress and challenges faced by federal universities in implementing the quota system, with the aim of evaluating whether the degree of engagement of these universities with this public policy promotes social justice for black students. Method: Qualitative analysis of institutional documents related to affirmative actions at the six federal universities located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Data collection was carried out through institutional websites, focusing on University Council decisions and other regulatory measures on affirmative actions. The documentary analysis allowed for the reconstruction of historical contexts and added a temporal perspective to social understanding. Results: The application of the Quota Law varied significantly among the universities. Four of them had already adopted affirmative action policies before 2012, while the other two only implemented them due to legal obligation. Two universities showed progress not only in access but also in the retention of quota students, approaching Fraser's concept of transformative measures that aim at structural changes, whereas two other universities still need to move forward by adopting policies that ensure the retention and graduation of students. Conclusion: The implementation of affirmative action policies is crucial for promoting social justice in higher education. The federal universities in Rio Grande do Sul show different levels of engagement with affirmative policies, reflecting their histories and institutional contexts. It is essential to advance in terms of inclusion policies, ensuring not only access but also the retention and academic success of quota students, to build a more inclusive and equitable educational system.