Dear Editor,
The House of Rastafari (HOR) continues to agitate for licensing and authorization to cultivate, import and possess Indian hemp/cannabis; the granting of Crown land for cultivation and farming; the expungement of all Indian hemp-related convictions since 1963; and the relaxation/discretion in the application of related criminal offenses (arrests) until revised laws are passed.
However, it is ironic that a certain “special interest” mentions proper consultation when little to no consultation has ever been afforded to the Rastafari community. It is ironic that a certain “special interest” seeks additional tax relief yet denies the Rastafari community relief from religious persecution and depravation of constitutional rights.
“We expect the same out of the government of the day,” Delton Fernander (Bahamas Christian Council president)
This is a new day… Clearly the former administration and this “special interest” was and appear to still be in cahoots. The former minister of agriculture did meet with the HOR and stated full support of the sacramental use of cannabis for the Rastafari community. Has his position changed? The new administration has the attention and support of the Rastafari community. Where do we go from here?
The House of Rastafari Executive Council
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