Recognition to Professor Diógenes Díaz Campos, who was awarded the 2023 National Science and Technology Prize

El CLACSO Working Group: Civilizational Crisis, Reconfigurations of Racism, Afro-Latin American Social Movements is pleased to express its sincere recognition and congratulations to Brother Diógenes Díaz Campos for having been awarded the 2023 National Science, Technology and Innovation Award, in the category "National Award for the Best Scientific, Technological and Innovation Work: Social Sciences and Humanities".

The award bestowed is a testament to her exceptional dedication to activist and academic research, especially in the field of Social Sciences and Humanities. Her valuable contribution highlights the importance of the African component and its descendants in the diversity and cultural identity of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and, by extension, throughout Latin America.

This research delves deeply into the African heritage, whose legacy has been rendered invisible by structural racism. Its approach highlights the fundamental role of Africans and their descendants in the history and consciousness of Venezuela. It is not only a call to reflect on our roots, but also an essential tool for promoting Afro-descendant self-recognition and combating racism and all forms of violence.

It is worth noting that Brother Diógenes Díaz Campos's work transcends the borders of Venezuela, making a significant contribution to all of Latin America. His work aligns with the fundamental principles of our Working Group in exploring the reconfigurations of racism and in promoting Afro-Latin American social movements.

Furthermore, we acknowledge our award recipient's focus on the Afro-Venezuelan academic tradition, referencing prominent 20th-century thinkers. This chronology of academic thought allows for necessary self-reflection on identity, opening a space for dialogue and mutual understanding.

In this context, we celebrate the ethics, talent, and commitment of Diógenes Díaz Campos, who, as co-coordinator of our Working Group, has proven to be an inspiration to all academics committed to building anti-racist and equitable societies.

We extend our warmest congratulations to our teammate for this well-deserved recognition and thank him for his valuable contribution to the advancement of Social Sciences and Humanities in our region.

January 3, 2024
CLACSO Working Group
Civilizational crisis, reconfigurations of racism, Afro-Latin American social movements

This text expresses the position of the CLACSO Working Group Civilizational crisis, reconfigurations of racism, Afro-Latin American social movements and not necessarily that of the centers and institutions that make up the CLACSO international network, its Steering Committee or its Executive Secretariat.