As we draw ever closer to the opening ceremony of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, commentators have been scrutinizing the host city with a keen eye for imperfections. Whether it’s stadium construction running behind schedule, the Zika virus deterring the crowds, or political crisis threatening to topple the country’s president, each set back has been itemized and analyzed by the international press.
So far, the focus has been on whether Rio de Janeiro is ready for a 17-day sporting event. But this overlooks the fact that these preparations have been affecting Cariocas—as the citizens of Rio are known—for the past seven years and will change the face of the city for decades to come.
So, what impact will the Olympics have on the residents of Rio—especially those who may not be privileged enough to attend the Games?
