Ilê Aiyê is a carnival block from Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, based in the Curuzu/Liberdade neighborhood, known for having the largest Afro-descendant population in the city. Founded in 1974 by Antônio Carlos “Vovô” and Apolônio de Jesus, Ilê Aiyê is the oldest Afro-Brazilian carnival block. The name comes from the Yoruba language, meaning "House of Life" or "Earth." Ilê Aiyê was created to elevate the consciousness and pride of the black community in Bahia. Despite initial persecution by the police and media, and controversy over its policy of only allowing black participants, Ilê Aiyê has become a vital part of Bahia’s carnival. It pioneered the bloco afro movement, emphasizing themes from global black cultures and history, and celebrating black aesthetics. Canto Negro, their studio debut, saw the light in 1984 and was followed by other well-received releases such as Canto Negro II (1989), Canto Negro III (1996), Canto Negro IV (1998), and 25 Anos (1999). Many other Afro-Brazilian blocos, like Olodum and Malê Debalê, were inspired by Ilê Aiyê's innovations. During the Bahian carnival, Ilê Aiyê includes hundreds of musicians, dancers, and thousands of members. Their procession traditionally begins on the Saturday night of Carnaval at the home of the Dos Santos family. Mãe Hilda de Jitolu, the spiritual mother of the group and mother of co-founder Vovô, was a key figure, leading a candomblé and guiding the group spiritually. Ilê Aiyê has been a force for cultural revolution in Brazil. Before its founding, racial stigmatization discouraged black men and women from wearing colorful clothing, entering through front doors, wearing afro hairstyles, or using lipstick. Through music and the celebration of African culture, Ilê Aiyê empowered Afro-Brazilians and transformed these social norms.
