1. RASTAFARIANISM NON-VIOLENCE AND SURVIVAL

2. Basic Principles Rastafarianism originated in Jamaica in the early 20th century as a response to their oppression by Western nations. Wanted to defy ‘Babylon’- western culture Utilized non-violence as basic mechanism to defy Babylon

3. Founding Principles of Sharers A peaceful, autonomous society Non-violence Symbiotic relationship with nature - lifestyle complements natural world. A way to rebel against the male aggressors in their past.

4. NON-VIOLENCE RESISTANCE Reggae music: primary way to “beat down Babylon” ‘Dread talk’: a rejection of being “cultured” by European standards Dreadlocks: a way to redefine beauty and promote pride in their African roots Adoption of Ethiopian colors

5. REGGAE MUSIC Restores self- awareness and brings to light the African roots and identity. “Teaches the people about the oppressive, deceptive, and divisive nature of the system under which they live.” “Reggae is the Rastafarian vehicle for ‘political, cultureal, moral and religious purposes and protests.’”

6. The Importance of Dreadlocks Dreadlocks are a way to repudiate Babylon and its artificiality. Origins in Levitical laws that forbid trimming and shaving. Shaking the dreadlocks is a way to release sacred power - -”mystic antenna” to connect with God and his “earthforce”. Intended to inspire dread in the Babylonians in a non- violent fashion.

7. The Role of Ganja in Rastafarianism and Non- Violence For Rastas, smoking ganja is seen as a way to tap into a state of mind in which the sacred can be accessed. The calming effects and contemplation of the sacred are non-violent ways to combat their daily oppression

8. SURVIVIAL AND NON- VIOLENCE Rastafarianism has allowed for the psychological survival of the inhabitants of Jamaica and other former colonies in the West Indies. The non-violence component provides a means to rebel and maintain a degree of mental autonomy Furthermore, the non-violent ‘weapons’ promote pride in African culture and allow that past heritage to survive the influence of Babylon

9. Rastafarianism and Door into Ocean Connection between the natural world and their lifestyle. Rastas are often vegetarian, eating only fresh foods, like mango and coconut, and avoiding alcohol, meat, pork, and shellfish. While the Sharers do eat shellfish, they too are devoted to eating naturally and living in harmony with the natural world

10. Whitetrance and Rastafarianism Whitetrance allows a psychological escape not unlike that which Rastafarianism provides. “Whitetrance would be her own, her last line of defense, the state of consciousness that said ‘I choose freedom above life” (204)