I am here to announce that I am no longer a Rastafari. When I first began Rastafari, it was 6 years ago when I became a vegan and started connecting with my ancestors' roots. I even visited the great Ethiopia. Throughout the years of my journey, it has been both fun and a learning experience. You may be questioning why I would leave a beautiful Rastafari culture. Simply put, it's not heading in the direction that I am pursuing.
In black culture, we deal with so many issues. Rastafari doesn't have the voice to tackle all of them, respectively. Rastafari is becoming a thing that so many are forgetting its original purpose. It was created to end oppression, inequality, and to free up Africa and every black nation's economy. Most importantly, it aimed to restore the identity of black people. However, this pursuit is being replaced solely by ganja and music, along with the notion that all races must come together as one.
When we speak of coming together as one, creating businesses, and fostering a peaceful environment, I am fully supportive. However, witnessing Rastas or so-called Rastas engaging in mixed relationships with white individuals troubles me deeply. From my perspective, we should focus on breeding within our own race. Furthermore, the infiltration of white individuals into our Rastafari goals is a growing concern. I believe that there is no such thing as a white Rasta. Perhaps Mutabaruka can explain this more eloquently than I can.
On another note, I've noticed that some Rastafarians are becoming passive and lack the initiative or tools to drive change. What purpose does a movement serve if a significant portion of its members remains inactive in the pursuit of change? We need more black doctors, black governments, black entrepreneurs, and above all, more black individuals who are genuinely committed to effecting change in Africa.
Haile Selassie I didn't confine himself to a single location. He dedicated his entire life to the greater good of the African race. I find myself wondering how many of us are willing to make similar sacrifices – pursuing higher education or mastering trades that can benefit our race and continent. How many are forming in-person groups, beyond just online communities, to develop both short-term and long-term goals? Unfortunately, very few. Many of us seem more interested in adopting the title of Rastafarian than in remembering its original purpose.
Personally, I'm shifting my focus towards these goals. What's holding me back is my identification as a Rasta. It's no longer a network of like-minded individuals who come together to seek profound truths.
I've found another title that aligns perfectly with me. I will no longer refer to myself as a Rasta, but as a true pan-African dedicated to Africa's progress. I invite the ancestors to witness this declaration and guide my heart and soul towards the greater good of Africa.
Many of us are toying with time, but I can't afford to do so any longer. These words will serve as my affirmation and a source of strength to keep me moving forward. I am Kashta Ptah Ras, and I am no longer a Rastafari.
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