Concerning dining preferences
published: Wednesday | January 8, 2003
THE EDITOR, Sir:
I WISH to offer some comments to a letter submitted appearing in your paper about a recent incident at Carlos Cafe. I wasn't too sure if I missed the point, but I wondered where does a restaurant or dining establishment go wrong by offering reserved tables to select clientele? Whether they are 'top celebrities' or regular patrons, this is a known business practice in any reputable dining/bar establishment, anywhere in the world you go!
Although race and class prejudice is deeply embedded in Jamaica's culture, it is subtle and we cannot blatantly shout racism or prejudice at everything that goes wrong in our lives! I don't see how a patron can be upset, if they are directed to other seating areas because of reservation at a scheduled event.
I've been to Carlos Cafe many times on frequent visits to Jamaica, and never once experienced this type of treatment. Then again, one might argue my light skin colour could be the reason. However, I often think one's own insecurity, or feeling of 'not belonging' can be the cause of one's own misfortune. A person's image and social conduct, which might be seen as inappropriate in a particular social setting to which he is not accustomed, can also be a factor.
I urge the writer to take stock, instead of putting down his own country and culture, and blaming racism and class prejudice on what must've just been an unfortunate evening.
