THE EDITOR, Sir:
IN JANUARY 2004 I visited your country for the first time. I fell in love with the Jamaican people. I have never been to a place where the greeting to strangers is "Welcome home." Immediately upon returning to the United States I began planning my return to Jamaica. I plan to visit in January 2006.
I am having trouble reconciling the experiences I enjoyed visiting with loving Jamaicans, with the total of 845 murders having taken place on the island since January.
During my visit, I witnessed harsh police tactics near Negril, so I do not think that the answer lies within the police system. Could it be that ganja must be legalised and attention be put on the cocaine trade? Following the U.S. guidelines on marijuana seems to be killing your country.
There are many islands to choose to visit. I have no fear of marijuana dealers but I do fear cocaine dealers. Do not be bullied by U.S. politics. Irie must prevail. Bright blessings.
I am, etc.,
LYNN M. PIERCE
Lpierce@vinlandcenter.org
Sauk Rapids, MNM, USA
Via Go-Jamaica
