Quem Planta o Preconceito

Natiruts' song "Quem Planta o Preconceito" is a powerful commentary on the cyclical nature of prejudice, racism, and indifference, and how these negative seeds inevitably lead to violence. The repetition of the phrase "Quem planta preconceito, racismo, indiferença, não pode reclamar da violência" ("Whoever sows prejudice, racism, indifference, cannot complain about violence") serves as a stark reminder that societal issues are interconnected. The song suggests that those who perpetuate discrimination and apathy are complicit in the resulting social unrest and violence.

The lyrics paint vivid scenes of everyday injustices, such as a child begging at a traffic light and being ignored, or the racial profiling of a Black person at a bank. These examples highlight the systemic nature of prejudice and how it manifests in daily life. The song also touches on the impunity of the powerful, pointing out that politicians and doctors who steal from the public often escape punishment, further exacerbating social inequalities.

In the latter part of the song, Natiruts emphasizes the importance of learning from influential figures like Afrika Bambaataa, Haile Selassie, Bob Marley, and Chuck D. These icons represent resistance, cultural pride, and the power of music as a tool for social change. The song suggests that reggae and hip-hop can be vehicles for expressing these messages, contrasting with the negative influences that sometimes permeate media. The lyrics also stress that children are not born with hate or prejudice; these are learned behaviors, underscoring the responsibility of society to teach love and acceptance.

The song concludes with a poignant reflection on the consequences of sowing violence and hatred, ultimately leading to a harvest of hatred and division. Natiruts calls for a collective effort to break this cycle by embracing cultural education, social justice, and empathy, thereby fostering a more equitable and peaceful society.