In the Sunday Gleaner in September 2022, under the caption ‘Human rights and MOEY’s dress and grooming policy’, I said: As one might expect from a context endowed with highly educated minds, it contains some of the best and most appropriate-sounding words. However, when read through the lens of human rights, it is fraught with weaknesses. ”
We understand that the majestic beauty of African hair can be intimidating, as it is an affirmation of self-confidence and admiration of inner strength, but we continue to be prejudiced against self-contempt. should be overcome. No Jamaican at any level of the education system should be made to feel guilty about having a clean and neat African hairstyle. But this unnecessary attack on African hair aesthetics won’t last forever. The good news is that Jamaican hair will be free within this century. People are beginning to realize that education and decency are not hindered by African hair.
Another generation of Jamaicans looks back with amazement at a time when it was a crime to go to school while being black, and even later, when it was a crime to go to school wearing a full head of African hair. It’s going to happen. Sadly, some of this nonsense stems from religious prejudice.
In post-slavery (post-colonial?) societies, supposedly intelligent people still repeat the gibberish mantra that “rules are rules.” Many people don’t know that this mantra has kept the apartheid system in place for centuries. Rules are rules. This mantra sought to keep black people in the back of the bus and behind the church and on the other side of the fountain. “Rules are rules” is the equivalent of “making Jamaica great again” as it was 200 years ago.
Let the movers and shakers of Jamaican society, and especially members of Congress, remember that the cultural identity, roots, and revered aesthetics of slaves were condemned to destruction, and slaves’ heads were shaved. Rules are rules. May we all remember that the concept of “bad hair” was embodied in slavery. Remember, 18th century law required Black women in Louisiana to cover their hair. Rules are rules.
Sadly, but true, many highly educated professionals have found themselves victims of a sick system perverted by systemic racism, colorism, and false religion. Not yet. In any case, it should be noted that many enslaved young people try to miss out on every opportunity after graduation. And they will find other countries willing to hire them, with afros, braids, braids, hair and all.
Oh, if only we could decolonize the church, the schools, the parliament, and the entire land of Jamaica and the people we love!
bless Israel (see Genesis 12:3)
Once again, there are well-intentioned Christians who do not realize that the call to “bless Israel” is not a call to ignore Palestine. There are church groups that focus on prayer and intercession for Israel. This is also an exclusive approach and an inclusive approach.
We must be careful to overlook the truth that the Old Testament stories arose from a tribal background and that tribal thinkers understood God to be biased against their cause. . I would also like to note that by faith God blesses those who bless other nations.
The example of the Archbishop of Canterbury is positive, pastoral, and instructive. “Lord, we lift before you all who are grieving today. Please have mercy.
We pray for our Jewish neighbors and our Muslim neighbors in the Holy Land, in the UK and around the world. We also pray for our Christian sisters and brothers in the Holy Land and Lebanon, asking God to strengthen and protect them. In the shadow of war, Lord, bring comfort, healing, and light to all who live in darkness.
“The Lord will bless you and keep you. The Lord will make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord will lift up his face and give you peace.” (Num. 6:24-26)
Silence of the Powerful in the Immaculate Story
Silence about the Immaculate Conception The high school issue is far from innocent. It reeks of protected privilege and institutional classism. Although this exemplary student has had a most admirable career over the past six years, her 4th grade in CAPE subjects (recognized as a pass) disqualifies her from progressing to the upper 6th grade. We the little people have raised our voices, but the voices of the movers and shakers of society, and of many holy religions, remain silent. But rules are rules. The law-centered approach has won again. However, many in the church will continue to pay lip service to a grace-centered approach.
The school’s motto “Ad Astra per Aspera” (“Over the Difficulties to the Stars”) has been silent on this issue, but we hope that one day we will empower our children. , we hope that the celebration of National Heroes Day will be truly vibrant in an empowering way. Citizens must respect themselves and their identities, including their strengths and weaknesses.
May we also affirm our God-given character, our colors, and all that contributes to our unfulfilled national motto: “Of many, one people.” .
Father Sean Major-Campbell is an Anglican priest and champion of human dignity and human rights. Send feedback to seanmajorcampbell@yahoo.com or columns@gleanerjm.com.
