at a glance

favelas are one of the most sensitive and difficult topics of conversation - the subject is difficult to discuss for  many locals, and probably is a topic that should not be approached casually by the occasional or uninformed visitor.

When approaching the topic of a favela, probably one of the best assumptions a visitor can make is  that they he or she knows very little about favelas, no matter the amount of study and research done beforehand.

Cariocas are profoundly connected to their city - to the mountains, the beaches, their culture, and to the ' asphalt ' as much as the 'hills.'       

They are proud and protective of their land, and tend to have strong views about what makes their city unique and wonderful, and what specific attributes could be improved upon.

People may have grown up or lived in favelas, or at least have families and friends who did, so their emotional connection tends to be personal as well as conceptual.

cariocas are very open to new ideas and opinions - culturally, syncretism has played an important part in the development of many aspects of rio de janeiro - this said, certain topics are not a welcome topic of conversation or discussion.        

No matter how educated or conscientious one may feel or try to be  about favela history and culture, a visitor should always defer to the knowledge and views of a carioca, who by definition has a much deeper and broader understanding.

External opinions about favelas are very likely to cause offence, or at least discomfort, even when a carioca does not openly say so.

Positive views about the state and condition of favelas may frustrate cariocas who are not particularly satisfied with certain aspects of the urbanization progress, while At the same time, comments about negative conditions and areas for improvement may upset those who feel proud of the profound achievements and developments they have witnessed in rio's comunidades in recent years - this extends to any and all topics concerning favela living and culture.       

in fact, learning in advance a bit about favela history and culture can prevent wrong accidental remarks and awkward situations.

The best way to 'discuss' a favela is to humbly and respectfully listen - and when and if a direct opinion is asked it should be presented with sensitivity.