The process of hetero-identification panels at Darcy Ribeiro State University of Northern Rio de Janeiro – UENF

Abstract

this article aims to present the implementation process of hetero-identification panels at the Darcy Ribeiro State University of Northern Rio de Janeiro (UENF). We highlight key aspects of this process, such as the significant role played by UENF’s Center for Afro-Brazilian and Indigenous Studies (NEABI) in shaping the entire initiative—including the drafting of COLAC Resolution No. 21 (October 4, 2022). This resolution established guidelines for validating the ethnic-racial self-declarations of successful candidates for enrollment in UENF’s undergraduate and graduate programs. We also discuss the training course for hetero-identification committee members organized and conducted by NEABI, which covered the conceptual and methodological foundations necessary to prepare the panel members. Finally, based on the results from the 2023 and 2026 panels, we conclude that hetero-identification has been successful at UENF; low rejection rates were observed regarding the self-declarations of students identifying as Black (*preto* or *pardo*), demonstrating that the implementation of hetero-identification effectively curbed fraud and ensured access for those truly entitled to racial quotas.