Wayne W. Huang

The Jongo da Serrinha Cultural Group Association was created in 2000 aiming to continue the historical heritage protection of Jongo. The original social protection project was founded more then 40 years ago by Vovó Maria Joana Rezadeira and Mestre Darcy do Jongo. Jongo is a manifestation of Afro-Brazilian culture, originated in the African Banto rites and rituals, blending circle dance, music and, some Umbanda processions. Jongo has been carried out since the time of slavery in Brazil. Jongo (“amusement” in Banto, cf. Alceu Maynardi) has its origins in rural Africa, most likely in Angola.