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This article analyzes the political positions of Black communities in the disputes between Republicans and monarchists over the celebrations for the end of enslavement in 1888 and 1889, in the cities of Campinas and Piracicaba. Journalistic sources revealed at least two positions. One gave full credit to abolition campaigns and popular abolitionists, while the other, sympathetic to the imperial regime, credited parliament, the imperial family and the Conservative Party. In the background of this debate was whether or not the monarchical system of government should be maintained. Black people participated in this debate, and there was support for both positions depending on the affiliation of the group. But above all, Black communities on both sides aimed to show their status as free people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]