Racism, Political Resistance to Inclusion:

Mapping the scientific production on ethnic-racial exclusion

Abstract

Social exclusion and ethnic-racial issues structure inequalities in Brazil, with an emphasis on the impacts on mental health and the effectiveness of public policies. A review of studies on the subject identified that historically marginalized groups, such as Black women, the homeless population, vulnerable children and adolescents, the elderly, quilombola communities, and LGBTQIAPN+ individuals, experience persistent discrimination, institutional neglect, and difficulties accessing essential services. In the field of mental health, structural racism and adverse socioeconomic conditions intensify psychological suffering and limit the provision of equitable care. Regarding public policies, it was found that, despite normative advances, weaknesses remain in implementation and intersectoral coordination, contributing to the continuation of rights violations, abandonment, and social invisibility. Within the context of ethnic-racial issues, studies demonstrate that hygienist practices, historical stigmas, and racial inequalities still organize social relations, reinforcing the marginalization of the Black body and the reproduction of symbolic and institutional violence. The relevance of ethnic-racial socialization and the role of Black women in strengthening identity and building anti-racist practices in Social Work is highlighted. It is concluded that confronting social exclusion requires integrated public policies, anti-racist actions, and a professional practice committed to equity and the principles of the Ethical-Political Project of Social Work.