THE EDITOR, Sir:
ON NOVEMBER 11, 2003, you published an article criticising the Rastafari religion. First, I would like to start this letter, by denouncing the individual who wrote such an egocentric article. Every man, woman and child should be able to practise their religion without persecution or ridicule from anyone. The individual that wrote this article took it upon himself to judge another person's beliefs. This is wrong! If the Rastafarians want to believe that Haile Selassie is God, then they should have the right to do so, without persecution.
Secondly, I believe in Rastafari and their philosophy. In the Bible, there are certain references to a King coming out of Ethiopia. Rastafarians see this King as Haile Selassie. I believe that Haile Selassie was a prophet and excellent leader.
A real Rastafarian is a peaceful person, that wants to separate themselves, from the pollution and follies in this world. In my opinion, one of the biggest problems with the Rastafarian order is How do we distinguish a real Rastafarian from a fake Rastaman? Rasta and Dread are two different things. Rastafari is a way of life, dreadlocks is a hairstyle.
I don't see anyone persecuting the Jew for his belief or wanting to go to Israel to live. Why do it to the Rastafarians? We live in a diverse world and everyone cannot see the world from the same angle. Everyone cannot be a part of a dominant culture in society.
I am, etc.,
CHRIS BAIRD
bairdc1997@aol.com
New York
Via Go-Jamaica
