Research Institute for the Study of Man
The Earth Most Strangest Man: The Rastafarian by Mortimo Planno
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What Ras Tafari Brethren Want.

The U.C.W.I was invited by Ras Tafari Brethren to tell the public what the movement stands for, how it is organised, and what the brethren want. As we have shown, the movement is not homogenous, and most of its members recognise no single leaders or group of leaders. Nevertheless, certain common desires can formulated.

All the brethren want to be repatriated to ETHIOPIA. There is no agreement, however, on what should happen in the meantime. The majority recogine that they have to live, and would welcome efforts to provide employment, housing, water and other amenities. There is, however, a very vocal minority which regards any effort to help Ras Tafari brethren in these ways as a plot to keep them in Jamaica. They profess themselves to be violently opposed to any measures which might have the effect of rehabilitation.

At a meeting held on July 15th between the U.C.W.I. team, the Principal and a large number of brethren, it was agreed that the following is a fair statement of what Ras Tafari brethren want. In commenting seriatim, we also include our own recommendations.

Readers will find how very hard it is to tackle a problem like this: and how easy things can be done. when People Recognizes one Right and act.

(1) The Ras Tafari brethren all want repatriation.

(2) All the brethren want local recognition and freedom of movement and speech, which are essential human Right

(3) All want an end of 'persecution' by Government and police.

(4) Some brethren want improved material, social and economic conditions until repatriation.

(5) Some brethren want educational provisions, including adult education and technical training. Many brethren are skilled men seeking employment.

(6) Some brethren have suggested that a special Fund be set up, to be known as the Ras Tafari Rehabilitation

(7) Others have asked for a radio programme to tell Jamaica about their doctrine; some for Press facilities.

The goals and needs are specific and operational. There is nothing inherently impossible about them. The most important are also the most difficult and the most generally wanted. Of these, repatriation, that is, return to Africa, is undoubtedly the most passionately held and widespread demand of the Ras Tafari brethren.

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