Revellers happy to escape grim year while Carnival reflects turbulent times
BRAZILIANS have let off steam during the first full day of Carnival, as the country endures a lacklustre economy, a massive corruption investigation and increasing political polarisation.
This year’s Carnival has seen women’s groups highlighting the sexual harassment and unwelcome touching that many face during the celebrations and throughout the year on Brazil’s streets.
Others called attention to housing shortages or politicians accused of corruption.
Rio de Janeiro is also experiencing a wave of violence, as drug gangs battle it out on the streets, often killing passers-by.
Authorities in the capital are putting 17,000 security forces on the street during its worldfamous celebration, which is known for elaborate, or costumes and samba competitions.
However, many revellers still see Carnival as a chance to escape their woes. Hector Batelli, for instance. said: “Carnival transcends politics. It’s [a celebration] of the Brazilian people,” said the lawyer, 30. “So we put aside politics to have a party, to celebrate.”
Dilene Monteiro attended a Sao Paulo Carnival street party, known as a bloco, in the hope of forgetting the past year. “This is a moment to release all the energy of 2017, which wasn’t great,” said the psychologist, 52.
For 35-year-old unemployed Mariana Leao Zampier, Carnival might even be a way to mend a fractured society. “At least for Carnival, you have everyone on the same rhythm,” she said.