Members of the Rastafari religion and political movement have for decades been persecuted and imprisoned for their ritualistic use of marijuana. But the tiny islands of Antigua and Barbuda recently became one of the first Caribbean nations to grant Rastafari official sacramental authorization to grow and smoke the herb that they deem sacred. Here is a quick look at the faith’s beliefs and history:ORIGINSThe Rastafari faith is rooted in 1930s Jamaica, growing as a response by Black people to white colonial oppression. GANJA“Ganja,” as marijuana is known in the Caribbean, has a long history in Jamaica, and its arrival predates the Rastafari faith. HAILE SELASSIEMost of its many sects worship the late Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie.

Source: Ethiopian News June 02, 2023 13:15 UTC