Rastafarian Women – What every man should know
When it comes to dating and sex related issues, the Rastafarian women will find it much harder to connect with their ideal partner. Since the explosion of this movement in Jamaica during the 1930s, the members of this religion have actually resisted the trends in food, language, music and clothing. But maybe the most extraordinary facets of Rastafarianism will be the fascination that white women have for Jamaican men.
If compared with Christianity faith, there is always a noted difference in the number of males who opt for this religious belief as opposed to the women because Rastafarianism is often less appealing to females. Based on a survey in 2001, it was indicated that there was approximately six men to just one woman. This is a marked difference when one considers the fact that significantly more women can be found in Christian churches.
Besides that, the women of this faith have further problems when it comes to finding a lover since the white women are always attracted to Rasta men. With the mere reference to the word Rasta, this typically brings marijuana, masculinity and reggae to mind. As a result, the feminine element of this religious movement is practically inferior in the general population.
In fact, some men are sexist and will refer to these women as substandard and the actual origin of sin. Despite the fact that the sisters nowadays countered this argument, there is still a sexist problem which stems from double standards and demonizing of woman, which is especially pronounced in certain Rastafarian villages.
Women are usually not forbidden from participating in Rastafarian customs, but nonetheless their function is one of acquiescence, especially when they are outside of the home. It is customary for them to wear ankle-length dress in public places; dreadlocks have to be completely covered during ceremonial functions and they will not be permitted to cook meals while menstruating. On certain occasions, these women are also placed in isolation.
If women in this faith want to overcome most of these obstacles they have to make use of information, dialogue and education resources which are readily available to become liberated nowadays. Even though there might be some ill-informed mysticism which might hinder a woman’s chances of total liberation, it is important for them to participate in discussions in order to eliminate male chauvinistic behaviors in this organized faith. In addition, building relationship with additional sisters in this movement and actively participating in women’s groups will also provide some useful ideas to combat sexism throughout the spirituality and the society at large.
In essence, it is really up to Rastafarian women in Jamaica to demand the respect and love that they truly deserve as human beings, particularly throughout their own community where everyone is important for the survival and growth of the movement. As of such, it will improve their chances of being recognized instead of living what is considered by some as an inferior lifestyle.
