June 1, 2014
Notes

Juxtaposition of the Day: A Sporting Look at Brazil's Social Goals

Mare slum goal posts Reuters

Goal posts Leblon beach Reuters 2

In Brazil, soccer goalposts can be found almost anywhere, from slums to sandy beaches.

— Reuters photo caption

My problem with this high profile Reuters slideshow and photo package featuring soccer goal posts around Rio?

First, it’s probably the only look we’re going to get of many of these favelas, which these photographers took the time and trouble to visit. Second, though the comparison between goal posts on the beaches and in the slums is implicit, the captions downplay the distinction — between the rich and the poor. (A more honest and proper comparison might have read: “from slums to luxury enclaves.”)

As for Leblon beach, where the second photo was taken, it’s recognized as the most affluent neighborhood in Rio.

(photo 1: Sergio Moraes/Reuterscaption: Vultures perch on a goal post in the Mare slum complex of Rio de Janeiro March 30, 2014.photo 2: Pilar Olivares/Reuters caption: Goal posts are seen on Leblon beach in Rio de Janeiro May 10, 2014. In Brazil, soccer goalposts can be found almost anywhere, from slums to sandy beaches.)

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Michael Shaw
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