Quotas are a very contentious issue in Brazil right now, as the government decides whether it will impose racial quotas in federal universities. The issue has divided Brazilians, but last week, the Sao Paulo state government made an important decision to uphold quotas.

The government ruled that Sao Paulo Fashion Week, one of the most important fashion events in the country, must include a minimum of 10 percent black and indigenous models. In past events, black and indigenous models made up just 2 percent of total number of runway models.

Despite the fact that Brazil has the largest population of African descendants outside of Africa, blacks account for few high profile positions in entertainment, like models or actresses. In fact, black Brazilian models have complained that it is harder to find work in Brazil than abroad. The ruling hopes to change this trend, at least at this particular event.

Sao Paulo Fashion Week will be held June 15 – 22 this year.