Written as a cautionary warning, this article reminds us of the outcomes of low-income citizens in post-Olympic cities which, not surprisingly, do not err in favour of the disenfranchised. Citing other Olympic cities, the article reveals undelivered promises for housing and draws attention to Vancouver’s own commitment.
Will Vancouver live up to its pledge to provide long-term solutions for housing or will it cave to the pressure and opt for quick fixes and short-term solutions provoked by the looming deadline of 2010?
Since published, Vancouver has already witnessed some of the prophecies come true (“evictions resulting from gentrification and beautification” and tougher laws on panhandling and/or loitering). As citizens we need to keep watch on policy changes that are being pushed for in the name of the Olympics. There effects will impact us longer than two weeks of festivities.
2006-08-31 - The Georgia Straight - Olympic Cities Punish Poor
