Dreams on a Battlefield...

Census 2011 (Update)

2011-08-31T10:55:00.001-05:00

You may recall my post from a month ago, in which I highlighted my praises and criticisms of the 2011 Census instrument and, particularly, a message that I had sent to the agency, detailing said praises and criticisms. A few moments ago, I received a response from the Joyce Stewart, the Human Resources Manger at the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN). I must admit that after all this time, I was a bit (pleasantly) surprised to receive a response. It is heartening to know that despite all the back and forth that has been taking place in Jamaica recently, that a message such as this has not fallen on deaf ears. It will likely take some time before it may be accurately stated that this message has been well-received and has been taken seriously. It may be a bit cynical, but this response, though welcome, could simply be an attempt to placate; to give the impression that these suggestions will, in fact, be given serious consideration. Perhaps all hope is not lost after all, but only time will tell. Below is the very concise response I received.

"Dear [H.A.],

Thank you for participating in the Population & Housing Census 2011 exercise and for taking the time to make recommendations regarding the questionnaire used in this exercise.

I have forwarded your e-mail to the relevant persons.

Best wishes.
Joyce Stewart
HR Manager"

The next Population & Housing Census may well be a decade from now but, perhaps by then, attitudes in Jamaica may have evolved sufficiently that this may no longer be as much of an issue as it is presently. Perhaps then, GLBT Jamaicans will be seen as more than just aberrant citizens, but rather as worthwhile Jamaican citizens, deserving of proper representation and respect.

Extolling the Virtues of Hard-Hitting Social Commentary.

2011-08-19T09:09:00.000-05:00

Jon Stewart is known for his handsome countenance, his fun quirkiness, his irreverent comedic social commentary. He is like that lovable puppy of which you simply cannot get enough! Do not be fooled! He has quite the bite! In this short excerpt from his nightly programme "The Daily Show", he touches on various ridiculous comments of 2012 U.S. Presidential candidate Rick Santorum, the reprehensible Defense of Marriage Act (Doma) and their far-reaching implications.

The Daily Show - DOMA Sweet DOMA
Get More: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

Now, you may further indulge your appetites by clicking HERE! You will notice that the image links to another site with videos from both Jon Stewart and his Comedy Central contemporary Stephen Colbert, another riotously hilarious man whose "Colbert Report" also promises much food for thought. This particular campaign against Rick Santorum was the brainchild of activist Dan Savage. See Savage's own comments below.

Zephyrs of Change...

2011-08-03T14:52:00.003-05:00

Recently, there have been some notable initiatives by the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals, and Gays (JFLAG), as well as other partners to put the issues of HIV/AIDS discrimination, and LGBT rights back into the spotlight, in an effort to stimulate intelligent discourse and reflection on these issues within the Jamaican population.

It is very important to highlight these initiatives, as some often go unnoticed, simply because the atmosphere in Jamaica is largely very oppressive when it comes to these issues. Of course, apart from HIV/AIDS discrimination and LGBT rights, Jamaica has a very real need to address other relevant issues that have not been getting the kind of coverage necessary to inspire change. These include the status (or perceived status) of women in Jamaica, particularly the denigration of the feminine identity in Dancehall; but another serious issue is that of the Black identity in Jamaica, and the need to reinforce positive images of negritude, in order to combat the loathsome phenomenon of bleaching, which has obtained for decades, but has recently been much more visible.

The point is, I believe it is necessary to give credit where credit is due. So, I salute JFLAG and the other partner organizations who have helped to make these two Public Service Announcements that you are about to see, a reality. The first video is one that I was pleasantly surprised to encounter a few months ago, which addresses both the issues I first mentioned: those of HIV/AIDS discrimination and LGBT rights. The second, a more recent initiative, and one I understand is the first in a series of planned PSAs, directly deals with respect for LGBT citizens.

The important thing to note is that with continued efforts such as the ones you will see below, change really is not only possible, but perhaps, inevitable.

Census 2011

2011-07-30T16:13:00.001-05:00

The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) has been publicizing its 2011 Census for months now. It is a very important initiative that helps to drive government policy, among other things. This afternoon, not very long ago in fact, the census taker came to us to collect our information.

It was a rather detailed instrument, and my family and I were most willing to cooperate and provide whatever information was needed. I made a couple observations, and asked the census taker if there was any place on the instrument for feedback from the public. The answer was no. Therefore, I took it upon myself to visit their website, in order to see their contact information and send some feedback of my own. Below is the content of the email I sent to the Human Resources Department, for the information on their website did not provide the best guidance as to where certain feedback should be sent. So, I figured that Human Resources would perhaps be the best place.

"A pleasant day to you. When I looked at the contact information on the website, I was not quite sure where to direct this email, but eventually thought that this might be the right place. The census taker, a very amenable young lady, came to us this afternoon. She was pleasant, professional, and patient. Unfortunately, I did not remember to take her name, but I commend you on your preparation of your field operatives.

I have only one criticism, which I hope will be taken seriously. Within that questionnaire, I did not see any questions with regards to sexual orientation. In this country, where so many policies are implemented that adversely affect the LGBT population, I thought that the Census would be the perfect instrument with which the government could attempt to get a more profound perspective of the specific numbers of persons affected by many of these policies. So many LGBT Jamaicans are nameless, faceless unknowns in the society. There does not seem to be much information available on the LGBT populations here, perhaps because more research needs to be done in that regard.

I would like to think that if the field operatives for the next census are given the adequate sensitivity training, and as long as the questionnaire is non-threatening and the guarantee is made to the public, as has been your policy, that the information will remain confidential, that LGBT individuals will feel as if they are also considered an important part of this society, and that their issues indeed matter. It may be a while before persons feel completely safe divulging such very private information to a complete stranger, but they may see the value of such an initiative and lend their support with their honesty. If this is continued, then you may eventually be able to get much more accurate information that may then help to guide government policy.

Thank you very much for your time, and I do hope that this suggestion will be seriously considered, and perhaps included in future Census instruments. Very kind regards.

Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité!

Peace & Love."

It may sometimes be difficult, but it is important that whenever opportunities like these arise to let our public officials and other relevant bodies know what one is thinking, that we take advantage of them. If a Census taker has not yet visited you, perhaps you may also want to send a letter of your own to STATIN. It may be the criticism I had, or something else. Whatever your particular concern may be, the General Elections are not the only times that our representatives ought to hear from us. Moreover, perhaps if the government had an exact idea of how many persons were being shafted by their inaction, their lack of vision and bigoted governing, then things might eventually begin to change.

Video Highlights 1 - LGBT Jamaica & the Media

2011-07-30T11:34:00.005-05:00

The idea for this first such post is to share interesting, relevant resources and commentary that bring some perspective to particular issues. My hope is that this will encourage discussion here on the blog, but also, that you will engage persons within your own sphere in these discussions. Too often, we try to push things underground, hoping that by not addressing them, they will automatically disappear. We do this in our own lives - which is often sufficiently destructive - without realizing the pain we cause ourselves; but by doing this with various social issues, the world we are effectively creating is one without conscience, or empathy. We often-times inadvertently subjugate others for the sake of our own comfort. Of course, individually, we are not each solely responsible for much of the pain and suffering that exists in the world, but the buck must stop somewhere...Each voice that refuses to stand with the multitude for the sake of conformity, can indeed help to make a difference. Important Note: The copyright on these videos belong to their respective owners and not to Dreams on a Battlefield...

A news item aired on Thursday, 28 July 2011. This was particularly interesting, because the visibility of Jamaican LGBT activism has always been somewhat hushed. The coverage, though relatively short, shows that the media are helping to lead the way in bringing about change with regards to the neutral and sometimes positive portrayal of LGBT issues in Jamaica. This is good news, because the media in Jamaica have often helped to stir the tensions already present in the society which have, on some occasions, led to the incitement of violence against LGBT citizens. This was a bold, and certainly appreciated move by the JFLAG, and equally by Television Jamaica.

In this 2007 BBC Radio Documentary "Coming Out in Jamaica," which I first heard on the BBC Caribbean service, the plights and struggles of LGBT Jamaicans for parity with their straight counterparts, and simply having the ability to love and be as the Universe intended, is most evident. The documentary speaks for itself.

Reflections On Jamaican Vicissitudes...

2011-04-08T20:28:00.002-05:00

Over the past 17 years, there has been much discourse on proposed provisions to be approved in Jamaica's new Charter of Rights, which replaces Chapter III of the Constitution of Jamaica. Finally, on 23 March this year, the Charter of Rights was voted on and approved by Parliament. It is a pyrrhic victory of sorts.

When one reflects on the countless Human Rights violations and other related atrocities that have beleaguered the nation over the past two decades, and couples that understanding with the deliberate exclusions in the currently approved bill, one realizes just how much of an anti-climax this piece of legislation really represents. Disappointment aside - details to be presented later - we finally have a piece of legislation that trumpets the realization of Jamaican politicians that Human Rights really is an important consideration in Jamaica. If only they had gone all the way.

As it is, the new Charter of Rights assures Jamaicans the following: The right to life, liberty and security of the person and the right not to be deprived thereof except in the execution of the sentence of a court in respect of a criminal offence of which the person has been convicted; The right to freedom of thought, conscience, belief and observance of political doctrines; The right to freedom of expression; The right to seek, receive, distribute or disseminate information, opinions and ideas through any media; The right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association; The right to freedom of movement; The right to equality before the law; The right to freedom from discrimination on the grounds of: being male or female, race, place of origin, social class, colour, religion or political opinions. It also assures citizens the right to protection from search of the person and property; respect for and protection of private and family life, and privacy of the home; and protection of privacy of other property and of communication; The right to enjoy a healthy and productive environment free from the threat of injury or damage from environmental abuse and degradation of the ecological heritage; The right to protection from torture, or inhuman or degrading punishment or other treatment; The right to freedom of religion.

In the unlikely event that you missed it, in all of these rights to this and that, and in light of Jamaica's notorious reputation on the matter, nowhere in all of these is the right to freedom from discrimination based on sexual orientation included. Now, while the horrendous travesty that this is may be lost on many of my fellow Jamaicans, I, along with quite a few of my friends and other fellow Jamaicans who have languished in school and elsewhere due to our real or perceived non-adherence to expected heteronormativity, and even our sympathizers, have indeed paid very close attention to the manner in which recent events unfolded. The fact that an entire section of the population is still, in 2011, not on equal ground with the rest of the population speaks volumes. It speaks to the fact that our administration is still not ready to lead wholeheartedly and fairly, but rather prefers to continue the proud tradition of pandering to the majority to the disadvantage of the minority.

My mind returns to the exciting campaign and subsequent momentous election of President Obama; the fevered anticipation of that election contributed greatly to the simultaneous process that was taking place in Jamaica with Prime Minister Bruce Golding and how, in singular elation, so many around the world rejoiced in Barack Obama's unprecedented victory. I reflect on the soul's eternal longing for peace, and harmony; and how it very rarely finds it in the turbulence of life, and the occurrences and experiences that constantly consume our thoughts.

As unrealistic as it may seem, Hollywood and many authors certainly seem to have gotten it right: seldom do we find a story with an unhappy ending, contrary to the more veracious attempts we find in European works. Have you ever stopped to think of why you feel so dissatisfied on the rare occasions that you encounter a work that does not end with the expected happy ending? Collectively, humankind is yearning and reaching out for that peace and harmony; that expected happiness which life has never promised.

Many spiritual writers often allude or even explicitly speak to the destiny of humankind to evolve and attain its highest potential. For some, this seems an impossible dream - we are too destructive, too intent on dwelling in a fossilized individualistic paradigm that has long since transitioned to pluralism; but for many others, it is an achievable objective. The extent to which we are able to achieve that journey's end is largely dependent on our understanding of our goal and our acceptance of our individual purpose in assisting the collective to get there; our commitment to universal concepts of justice and equality; and our willingness and determination to endure the wilderness until company has arrived.

I think about the political tribalism that is a trademark of Jamaican culture and indeed, many other cultures. Generational politics overrides the individual responsibility and ability to think critically, then vote for candidates who have a serious passion and intent to effect change. It is a disastrous situation, and only serves to stymie collective good. The brilliant individual whom once stated that "No one is free when others are oppressed" was, quite likely, expressing him/herself from a space of collectivity. All countries in a state of political stagnation are victims of leaders rooted in individualism, and who have not yet grasped the concept of human collectivism. The idea that all our lives, our destinies, are irrevocably intertwined is that to which I refer.

I have known many of my friends and other distinguished citizens to leave this country, hoping for greener pastures - some actually finding what they are looking for - only for the spirit of Jamaica to weep, knowing that so many of her sons and daughters felt so frustrated, so disillusioned, so hopeless, that they felt they had no choice but to leave, hoping to preserve even a modicum of their self-respect and sanity. Many have left, never to return, because they did not see, or have not seen any change in the circumstances that precipitated their leaving in the first place. Great thinkers, writers, teachers, artists and so many countless others are missing from this beautiful island. When will the politicians understand their role in this movement, and grow the spines needed to take steps to reverse it?

One of my major philosophies has been the idea that "While there is life, there is hope." My patience evaporated long ago; my sadness often overwhelms me, sometimes to the point of various states of depression - despite my natural moodiness, - and my heart aches for the dismal state Jamaica is in. Still, in moments when the burden seems to great to bear, I remember that I still have hope; for as long as I draw breath, I have hope; and eventually, those knots in my chest, those tears that are afraid to come, the great sadness that torments me, will disappear for a while. Hope, indeed, is the breath of life...

An Ode to Negritude...

2011-02-08T17:18:00.005-06:00

For quite a few years now, I have noticed a discourse, encompassing not only a debate on the importance of observing Black History Month, but also the thinking behind dedicating only one particular month - also the shortest month - out of the entire year, to this portion of human history. I do hope to explore this further before the end of this month, since this still is Black History Month. However, your thoughts on this issue are very much welcomed.

At this point, however, there is a piece that I would like to share with you; one I wrote back in 2007, but has always been such a powerful piece for me. Shortly before I began to write it, such an unexpected and meditative energy, unlike any I had experienced before, overcame me. To this day, this piece is very near to my heart; and I hope that it will also galvanize you, no matter your race, creed or station, to reflection; perhaps, even, to action of some kind.

A Man, lynched during the Jim Crow era. "Requiem Aeternam, et Lux Perpetua Luceat Ei."

GREAT OAK FOREST...

Whispers...

of a gone, but not forgotten past...

As the wind rustles through the trees,

Such are the expirations of our ancestors...

Reminding us...

that even tho' their flesh has long since decayed,

the present generations are not so far removed from them,

that they cannot communicate with us...

Still...

As the unravelled threads of the

hangman's noose scatter to the winds...

the anguish'd screams of one whose

lover's breath has been mercilessly torn

from his aching flesh remains...

seared into the souls of the onlookers of

that time;

unable to wrench their gaze from the

grotesque beauty of a Man...murdered...

without just cause, feeling the life slowly

drain from His body.

His eyes, bulging...as the oxygen supply

steadily wanes...

A Man...A Brother...a Lover...a Friend...

a Father...

refusing to die with injured pride;

refusing to run headlong into the dark abyss

that lies before Him...

Refusing to let His sons and daughters

hear one cry of protest;

one cry of supplication;

one cry of rage...

Instead, He holds His head high...

smiling...He whispers,

"I'll be waiting to welcome you when you get there..."

He listens...

to the wails and sobs of His brothers...

His sisters...

His mother...His sons...His daughters...

and all those who loved Him dearly in His life

and, as difficult as it was to see a Man

so strong, so resilient, so beautiful...

cut down by these white folk;

a Man who stood like a Great Oak

in the forest, protecting the shrubs that

surrounded Him...

they refused to let Him die alone...

Their love transcended all dimensions;

wrapped him in an armour that was profoundly

impenetrable.

E'en as the whip sank its dreaded fangs

Into His back; His breast heaving in agony...

He felt it not...

for their tears washed His wounds...

healed His rage...

With the last of His strength, he reaches out

a hand to His people;

a gesture to let them know that He

loves them...that He feels their pain...

that He will never forget them...

His head hangs loosely;

His blood drenching the earth below...

He is finally free of the bonds that held

Him to the cotton fields; to the cane fields;

to those He leaves behind...

A View from Uganda

2010-12-09T14:40:00.004-06:00

The world has been microscopically examining a proposed piece of legislation in Uganda, a bill which has been most fittingly and chillingly nicknamed the "Kill the Gays" Bill. Whereas many African nations have either historically or presently been vehemently opposed to the notion of granting equal rights of various sorts to their GLBTQI citizens, territories such as South Africa have been making considerable progress with regards to recognizing and affirming not only the humanity of these often subjugated minority individuals, but also the importance and value of their various contributions to their own societies and, indeed, the world.

In an exclusive interview with MSNBC's Rachel Maddow last evening, the obviously misguided and confused author and main proponent of this proposed piece of legislation, Ugandan Member of Parliament David Bahati, speaks candidly with Rachel, while unsuccessfully attempting to obfuscate the issue and dodge answering the very direct questions posed by his interviewer. The interview is in two parts below.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

World AIDS Day 2010

2010-12-04T11:15:00.013-06:00

* Contains language which may not be suitable or agreeable to all viewers. Hence the warning issued before coming to this blog.

"AIDS Doesn't Discriminate" by Vous Ami

Although this post was meant for World AIDS Day, some unforeseen technical difficulties prevented that from happening. Still, the passage of that day neither negates nor precludes the continuing urgency of contemplation and action.

The global observation of this particularly important day was excellent, as were the views and opinions expressed by persons from all walks of life. Indeed, some of the more public responses from celebrities and other public figures only served to demonstrate how much our attitudes have evolved since the 1980s. The level of funding provided for the research, treatment and prevention of this pandemic globally, is another big indicator of how much we have come to appreciate its severity.

The attitude that presently obtains in Jamaica concerning this disease has been likened to that observed in the Unites States of America during the '80s. Hence, a good portion of the society is still somewhat in denial and unwilling to take the steps necessary to protect themselves, and improve the overall quality of life of Jamaicans susceptible to, and currently living with the disease. The administration is also tremendously responsible for this.

The inexcusable comments by Prime Minister Bruce Golding during the BBC HardTalk interview have fed into the general refusal of many persons in the administration and general society to see certain sexual minority populations as important enough to provide certain legal protections for them. The first problem was the terrible assumption that there were no "gays" already in his cabinet which, if we are to be completely reasonable, I'm sure is false. That would mean that not one, solitary lesbian, gay man; bisexual/bi-curious/"questioning" man or woman could possibly be in his cabinet, since the entire spectrum of sexual "deviancy" (i.e. non-heteronormative) is lumped under the umbrella of "gayness."

Then, we take into consideration the far-reaching implication that there would, in fact, be something wrong with an LGBTQI person - no matter how qualified for a cabinet position that person may be - holding such a station. The question is: Should the Honourable Prime Minister indeed discover that one or more of his cabinet ministers does not subscribe to heteronormative behaviour, will said individual(s) then be unceremoniously tossed from cabinet?

Scientifically, in Jamaica and elsewhere around the world, men who are known to engage in "risky behaviours," are lumped into a category known as MSMs, or "Men Who Have Sex with Men." Obviously, this is an important categorization, as it not only includes men who identify as either gay or bisexual, but those who are bi-curious and have explored or are likely to explore that option; as well as men who either occasionally or frequently engage in sexual relations with other men, but do not identify as gay or bisexual. The fact is that these various categories of men are sufficiently identifiable to be recognized as populations in need of, and deserving protection and education. Why then are we still fucking around, pretending that they don't exist? Why are we unwilling to repeal the buggery law; engage in lasting mass education strategies that will effectively show the society, and the world, that the rights of these individuals are considered important?

When a man who happens to fall into one of the above categories feels sufficiently threatened because of his sexual orientation, in a society where machismo and a rebel attitude are so unjustifiably important, he is likely to engage in sexual relations with a woman - perhaps without protection - simply to preserve his social image, his job, his family/friends, or even his life; the latter still being very relevant and true, despite many persons' attempts to paint it as grossly exaggerated or worse still, untrue. Had this man felt secure that his life and livelihood, or any of the aforementioned conditions, would not be negatively affected because of his sexual orientation, would he have been more or less likely to put an unsuspecting woman and, in some cases, real or potential progeny, in mortal jeopardy?

The argument often provided is that gay rights proponents are trying to "piggy-back" gay rights on HIV/AIDS remedial strategies and legislation. So fucking what? The fact that they are inescapably inter-related seems to escape many of those who are virulently anti-gay. I've said it before, and I will say it again that government is not there to pander to the society, but rather there to represent the interests of all law-abiding citizens. When this concept has finally been grasped by those who have the power to effect change, perhaps we may finally be able to move forward in this regard, and repair our bullet-riddled, blood-stained image. Perhaps then, we will finally begin to live the "One Love" philosophy we so tirelessly and hypocritically preach, but nary manage to live.

This past Tuesday evening, I was inspired to write another piece which, after reading it through, I found relevant to the struggle embodied by the then approaching World AIDS Day.

SONG and DANCE

Time hides its secrets from me,

telling me to trust, to wait;

wade blindly through the dark.

The secrecy is maddening!

How do I penetrate the veil?

Still, I know I must not know what lies ahead.

As I am tormented by the unknown,

still, time steadily moves on...

to that frightening veil, through the blinding darkness.

Decision by tentative decision leads me

to that which I fear most; that which I most desire...

which is what?

How will I distinguish the twain?

Perhaps, by then, they might have switched places!

What then?

I take it one day at a time

but, as the days run into each other,

time is tedium; a blur; shapeless ephemeron...

Entropy is the measure of time, and of life...

Supercilious though time may be,

it is only outdone by entropy.

I am lost in the colossus of time, of life;

of belief without proof: To dance and sing

in a senseless song and dance, trying not to miss a step.

We Were...

2010-09-12T11:08:00.000-05:00

We were all children, once:

starry-eyed, hopeful;

living from one fleeting moment to another.

Our love was unconditional,

our innocence, unrestrained -

the last strands of sunlight on the looming battlefield.

For wherever we stood,

light and laughter would follow;

wherever we flitted and flew,

joyous, buoyant life in our wake!

The manacles of convention dared not touch our wrists;

life's bittersweet conformity a simple ruse.

Lighthearted and gay were our song and dance:

through hill and vale and countryside.

We knew our valiant ditty would someday end,

swallowed up in time's voluptuous bosom;

once, our source of refuge and comfort,

but soon after, a traitorous friend:

smiling, weaving sticky webs,

and spinning fantastic tales of our youth as though we were never young...

Woe to you, thou blistering foe,

for comrade you cannot be!

I call my song of innocence,

and claim it as my own.

You shall not tempt me, you shall not win,

for I am the eternal child:

singing, weaving happy tales of when my heart once smiled...

Balancing the Scale: Censorship vs. Political Correctness.

2010-08-21T14:50:00.004-05:00

I recently got into a debate with someone; the main contention was whether or not an individual has the absolute right to utter whatever he/she pleases, despite conventions of political correctness, with total disregard for the feelings and liberties of others who may be subjected to those utterances and may, naturally and understandably, be consequently offended.

Throughout the history of mankind, there have always been words or phrases that were considered rude, offensive, or otherwise vulgar to be used in polite company; or in the company of those to whom the words or phrases referred, unless the intent were to offend. After some time, some of these words or phrases were considered archaic, fell into disuse, and were replaced by others that were equally, or even more offensive/abusive than their predecessors. Of course, humankind was, and has been vested with free will; but at what point does our God-given right to free will supersede others' God-given right to dignity, and vice versa?

My "opponent" in this debate strongly felt that an individual may often feel the need or expectation to censor himself, simply because another person "might" be offended by his use of a particular epithet, and that such an expectation was not only ridiculous, but unreasonable.

I will pause at this time to make an observation: when I write, I usually prefer to be sensitive to certain changes in attitudes towards gender representation in, particularly, the English language. You will find that I use him/her, or him/herself instead of the once and, perhaps somewhat still accepted superimposition of male universality in such contexts; and will often attempt to rephrase my ideas in order to avoid the "issue." While it is understood that it facilitates easier flow in writing and interpretation, and perhaps finds it roots in biblical patriarchy, which is a source of much of the gender stereotyping and female exclusion in our world, I realize that it is most certainly unfair and disrespectful to women.

It also seems to me that when reading a piece, multiple encounters of him/her and him/herself may inevitably become tedious. I will, therefore, temporarily revert to that dreadful practice in this particular post. To my female readers, I sincerely apologize, as I find it somewhat unavoidable. I ask however, that all readers substitute any such occurrences with the more inclusive "him/her" or "him/herself" where appropriate, and send me your feedback as to your own thoughts and preference on this particular issue. Based on the majority of responses, since it is perhaps the most diplomatic approach, I will decide how to best approach this in the future.

Now, back to the main discourse, I clearly disagreed with my "opponent." The concept of political correctness emerged and evolved for a reason. Minorities have always been disenfranchised, poorly represented and, for the most part, forced into silence, simply because the majority could neither appreciate nor respect the needs of the minority. Hence, when the rights or freedoms of the minority were put to a vote, the minority almost always ended up holding the blade instead of the handle. Political correctness came out of the struggle for equity/equality: a struggle which continues to this day.

I believe that we all have the right to freedom of expression, but with freedom comes responsibility. The responsibility is to ensure that in a world where we are not alone, but surrounded by many and varied people from similarly varied backgrounds, we view our own words and behaviours within that context. So many wars have been raged between countries, families, corporations, etc., simply because one party failed to consider the impact of their words and/or behaviours on another party, and inevitably compromised the dignity of said party.

When aid is being flown into a country where the religious/social custom is to not eat anything that has been on the floor, but that aid is unceremoniously dropped in the dirt, how are the people receiving that aid supposed to feel? Respected? Grateful? Let us then consider how they would subsequently react. While the intent of giving aid is laudable, the process by which that aid eventually reaches its destination is just as important. While this anecdote is somewhat different, the principle still stands.

If someone whom everyone counts on, or has come to expect to give jokes in a rather dull atmosphere, does so, but in an environment consisting of many and varied individuals, shouldn't the choice and content of those jokes or comments be subject to some discretion and, perhaps censorship? If he claims to value and/or respect the persons around him, shouldn't he do his best to ensure that those persons really do feel valued and/or respected? I will expand on this hypothetical situation.

Say, for example, that this person is "Black", in a white-majority class consisting of a few Latinos, "Blacks", GLBTs, and Jews. Now, outside of his class, his usual clique is mainly "Black", and the term "Nigger", which many "Blacks" consider offensive, is accepted within the group's idiolect as a term of endearment or recognition; does that automatically mean that his "Black" jokes within the class can or should contain that particular word, simply because it is acceptable among his other "Black" friends? Let's say that he is anti-Semitic, or heterosexist/homophobic; should his jokes contain anti-Semitic or homophobic language, when the scholastic goals of all students in the class are mutually-inclusive and, therefore, dependent on the maintenance of healthy relationship dynamics? This is a micro situation.

I should, perhaps, explain my use of quotation marks around the word Black. We know that the term is used to refer to persons whose skin colour is so dark as to not qualify them as "White." In a world where segregation of races, gender, sexuality, etc., was so terribly important, the need for a distinguishing classification emerged. In the world of Visual Arts, black is considered a neutral and not a colour; so are brown, grey and white. However, I cannot honestly say that I have ever encountered anyone who was truly black - different light and dark shades of brown, yes, but not black. Therefore, while my soul does not strongly revolt against the use of the term "black" to describe persons of dark complexion like myself, there is something about it with which I inherently disagree. If we were really and truly black, then we would have grey people instead of brown, perhaps.

When we look at the rest of the world, we see this sort of utter disregard and/or unawareness playing out in all sorts of relationships. We see the catastrophic effects that it has on policies and relationships, and quite often, how the rest of the world is affected. When we err, which it is most human to do, isn't the correct response to apologize, instead of attempting to deflect, obfuscate, or justify what is otherwise relatively straightforward and simple? Many of us are guilty of this within our own lives. I will admit, there have been many times when I have allowed my own vindictiveness or anger to dictate my response to many situations - even though on many occasions I solemnly swore to myself that I wouldn't - but eventually, unless I had resolved otherwise for reasons of pride or justice, I would deal with those situations maturely and responsibly.

That is one of the disadvantages of being human: no matter how much we would like to be completely blameless, or perfect, it is in our nature to err and be culpable. However, what really sets us apart is our ability or inability to apologize, to admit our own fallibility and /or culpability - in essence, admit our humanity and simply move on; putting others' dignity above our own desire to never be wrong, and beyond the reach of our own pride and egotistical justifications.

Letting Go...

2010-08-16T20:12:00.002-05:00

In the same way that it is important to let go of useless friends or dead relationships, it is just as important to come to terms with our memories. Scientists have asserted that buried deep within our subconscious mind, are memories which continue to drive our every day reactions, processes and behaviours. In other words, even memories we don't remember having, or of which we are simply not aware, still influence our lives in the present.

We have all heard of how powerful the mind is, in many and varied ways and likely, from many and varied sources. It really is an inescapable and ineluctable truth. Sometimes, seemingly for no apparent reason, echoes from our subconscious memories resound on the surface of our mind and our thoughts, and we are forced to travel back to times we thought we had long forgotten or dealt with, only to realize that the same joys and sorrows of those times live on within us; those same feelings live on.

While it may be easier to rid ourselves of unwanted friends, lovers, or family members by removing them from our immediate surroundings, cutting communication with them or avoiding certain bars, restaurants or other places, the subconscious mind lives within us, insidiously weaving its web and often thrusting us into strange, new, and sometimes frightening places. With that thought in mind, we realize that we may never really know anyone; we see certain facets and shades of their personality but, in reality, there is so much more that we never really see; so much that remains unexplored, and brings out different sides that we often don't anticipate.

When someone dies, our memories of them linger: the good, the bad, the in-between. We laugh, we cry, we reflect; but not without much passage of time are we really able to begin to let go, to let the memories slip back into the depths from whence they came. At the memorial, carefully crafted eulogies and tributes conjure visions and dreams of things that once were, and as a congregation we experience them together. They never really go away...

When petty grievances are aired, or when arguments arise within a family, or a friendship, or a cherished relationship, there are many things at play; memories on both sides come to the fore, insert their voices into the cacophony and increase the turbulence. No matter how much we say we may desire to forgive, forgetting is not a part of the package. If we are unable to forget, then those voices from the past will continue to have the power to influence us in the present and, may ultimately shape our future. Unfortunately, remembering does not exactly facilitate forgiving.

Perhaps the real lesson in life is that we are not allowed to forget these things, lest by some stroke of "luck" we are "treated" to some traumatic event that renders them silent; we would forget the individuals we once were, and also the lessons that led us to the individuals we are today. The real travesty is that no matter how far we run, or how much we want to hide, we cannot escape them. Anyone who comes into contact with us at any point in our lives will have to deal with our undying memories, and we with theirs.

Without these memories, certain warning signs might be erased, leaving us vulnerable to perils we could have otherwise avoided. They also shade and sometimes direct our relations with others. Like it or not, they are part of who we are and, like it or not, there is no forgetting, no letting go...only survival.

US NOW

2010-08-16T14:35:00.002-05:00

This is a very interesting documentary that I encountered perhaps a week ago. I really thought that I should share this, as it proposes some rather interesting ideas that are worth examining. A work by Ivo Gormley, it looks at how the extensive networking capabilities of the internet may be utilized in governance, as well as in other areas of life. Before watching this, I had not imagined that some of the models presented here even existed. It is well worth the watch, and runs for 1 hour and 4 seconds. I apologize for the lack of full screen viewing here. By clicking on "Us Now" below the video, you will be directed to the Vimeo website, where you may view the documentary in all its full screen glory, if you prefer.

Us Now from Banyak Films on Vimeo.

Love Thy Neighbour...

2010-07-02T10:23:00.000-05:00

I know that my discussing issues of sexuality and, in particular, gay rights and wrongs, incenses some of my friends, acquaintances, and family members; but, when we see injustice in the world, it is not so easy for some of us to turn a blind eye, to pretend that these injustices do not exist, simply because it may make our lives easier, or help us to save face. The fact is that while I sit here and write this post, eating my delicious fried breadfruit and codfish, there are so many in the world who can scarcely imagine a meal like this before them; while the straight celebrities and politicians are able to marry and divorce as they please, their GLBT brothers and sisters do not have that right, let alone that privilege.

Men are sometimes curious, if not completely flabbergasted, when they think of how empathetic women often are towards gay men. Consider this possibility: when one has had to endure prejudice or discrimination of any kind, it makes him/her less likely to want to see that prejudice or discrimination, let alone be the one to inflict such pain on anyone else. The fact that women were born into this patriarchal world, and have had to find ways of not only surviving, but thriving in it, is something not to be taken lightly. Mighty, powerful men had the ultimate authority to tell women that they belonged in the household, merely raising children, cooking and cleaning, there only for the fulfilment of their husbands' desires; they were not to work, nor vote, nor participate in anything else that was considered "men's business."

Then, along came gay men who, physically may have looked like the rest of the men, often even better than the rest of them, but embodying the female warrior spirit; capable of realizing the hurt and pain that other men had caused them, and there as a sort of reconciliatory channel through which women could find some level of healing, and other men could find some level of absolution.

Even then, the road to total forgiveness is a long one, filled with potholes and curves that are sometimes unexpected; but still we trod along, hoping to one day reach our destination. I am not really touching on lesbians because really and truly, most of the laws and attitudes that traditionally exist aren't for their benefit. When the conquering England and other powerful countries colonized the Caribbean, or Africa, or many of the places where no "buggery" or other associated laws existed, they never imagined that such a dreadful legacy would be left; even worse, the fact that their societies to a large extent, have moved on, but those once colonized, unsuspecting societies have not, and they are almost powerless to do anything about it now.

Religion, Marx so rightly pointed out, is the opium of the people. That notion was correct then, and perhaps, even more so today. Religion, a construct that only vaguely reflects the ideals of its spiritual roots, was more than an opiate, it was an ingenious, well-devised weapon to control the masses; a machination from the devious minds of corrupt politicians bent on dominating the people whose interests they should have been representing.

For many "Christians", and I use the term loosely, gay people are seen as a scourge on the land, "abominations" from which the world desperately needs to be cleansed. When we consider that the roots of Christianity lie in a beautiful soul, whose only message was one of love, we can see just how far that religion has strayed from its original intent. Mary Magdalene, whom may have been Jesus' companion, or a street-walker, or both, was the subject of ridicule by some of her time, but also by the church, which some argue, sought to destroy the memory and reputation of a woman whose only crime may have been total commitment to Jesus; perhaps even, just being one of his disciples. For all intents and purposes, she was one of his disciples. Yet, when persons prepared to exact their own justice, his were not words of encouragement, but rather of scorn: "He who is without sin cast the first stone." The words, "Judge not, lest ye also be judged," come to mind, also.

Jesus' words and behaviour were not of judgement, or anger, or hatred, but of love. He could have just as easily let those philistines - not in the truly historical sense - stone her to death. Is it at all possible, that GLBT brothers and sisters are a test for contemporary "Christians"; that they are now being judged by their treatment of those they see as less than they are, instead of at some yet undetermined, future Judgement Day?

It is most disingenuous for people to say they are Christians, followers of one whose only message was one of love, forgiveness, reconciliation, but spewing only hatred, inflicting unnecessary pain on persons who are just like them: flesh and blood, put here on this earth for their own purpose, sharing time and space with persons who would sooner orchestrate and see their demise. As far as my understanding goes, God is the spirit of love, and love is the spirit of God. How then, could this God of love really condone the vigilantism that is today's "Christianity"?

It is also disingenuous for "Christians" to claim that they, as "followers of Christ", and believers in the Bible and all contained therein, follow the Ten Commandments. If I am not mistaken, one of those commandments instructs them to "Love thy neighbour as thyself." How does one do that, whilst still wishing for their demise? Perhaps my brain is not sufficiently evolved to totally grasp that paradox.

Those of us who are sane, do not wish for our own demise; nor do we wish for ourselves mediocre, unfulfilled, loveless lives; nor do we seek to make our own lives any more miserable and difficult than they have to be. Why then would we seek to make anyone else's life more mediocre, unfulfilled, loveless, miserable and difficult, if we were truly intent on loving our neighbours as ourselves? Just to avoid any confusion, "neighbour" in this context, does not simply refer to the persons who live on the same street that we do, but this global community.

This is not just an indictment on Christianity, but all religions that purport to welcome and love all people, but seek to cause pain and discord in this global community that already has more pain and discord than it needs. We need to stop fooling ourselves into thinking that we are these pious, holier-than-thou, good Christian people, when the most we shall ever be, at this rate, are "Christians".

Break the Bonds Asunder

2010-06-29T23:14:00.001-05:00

Relationships are strange creatures - whether they are intimate relationships with a lover, or regular friendships, they are living, breathing creatures that need to be fed and nurtured and, at some point, wither and die, or simply die unexpectedly. The point is that sometimes we cling to relationships that are well past their prime, and end up hurting ourselves and/or the other parties involved, because we do not want to let them go.

I have learnt to release my hold on useless friendships, even though I am the sort of person whom, by my very nature, wants more than anything to see my relationships succeed. Secrets stifle the evolution of any relationship from generic to intimate; and sometimes, even if the secrets have been revealed, there is no guarantee that they still won't create tension and even lead to the inevitable death that we may be dreading. That is one of the many paradoxes of life.

Still, because I give so much to my relationships, I am simply unable to fathom the notion of not having the other person's back, no matter how hard things might get. Good and true friends are certainly not easy to come by, and sometimes the smallest stones makes the largest ripples. Interesting concept, isn't it? The individual and cumulative effects of our actions make or break our relationships, and the sad part is, most of the time, we are aware of what is happening! Of course, it is not always consciously obvious, but deep down, we can feel the chains flexing and straining under the pressure.

The most liberating thing we may ever do for ourselves, is to accept the inevitable. Yes, we must grieve, in much the same way that we grieve when someone we love transitions, we must grieve for all that was, and for all that had never come to be, because sometimes, that is the most painful loss. We come into this world alone, and surely, we all leave the same way. The shackles of friendship are not always tight, or intrusive, or even oppressive; but the shackles of memory are perhaps the hardest to rend, the hardest to shed when the creature has reached its end...

Troubling Circumstances...

2010-05-24T22:36:00.011-05:00

Jamaica: an island known to many as naturally beautiful, ideally-located, and blessed with a very talented and creative people; but, over the past few decades, has become even more notorious for insane levels of crime, violence and corruption, linked not only with criminals and gangs, but also with the flawed and, unfortunately, now entrenched and insidious tribalism that prevails the political architecture; and is inextricably bound to the island's socio-cultural practices.

Since the 1980's, when politically-motivated violence was rampant, we have seen more and more criminals crawling out of the woodwork, and establishing themselves as forces to be reckoned with in the global community of criminals. The last time I remember the country being held to such ransom, apart from hurricanes which we as a nation have learnt to deal with or simply ignore, was during the Gas Riots of April 1999. That was a terrible time, but somewhat understandable; considering the fact that most Jamaicans live at or below the poverty line.

However, the atrocity of this present ordeal is neither understandable, nor acceptable; not when we realize that all of this is taking place because of one man. One man whom, under the guise of being a saviour to the disenfranchised, is simultaneously complicit in their subjugation. While I admit no personal knowledge of the politics of organized crime, it is impossible for anyone to believe that any monument of organized crime is not established on foundations of violence, and is not similarly maintained.

This man, whom many consider a saviour, is holding at least a million people to ransom, because he has not the guts to face the consequences of his actions. It is said that if you live by the sword, you will die by the sword. However, Christopher Coke is not facing execution, but rather extradition, to account for crimes he had the guts to commit by his own hand, or by the hands of his loyal minions. Still, when push comes to shove, the concern that he supposedly has for his supporters in particular communities, does not extend to the wider community - namely, his country.

Up to a few months ago, I would still use "One Love" in my written correspondences with friends, acquaintances, and others with who I had reason to be involved. I have completely abandoned that phrase, because the "One Love" for which Jamaica was once famous, no longer exists - unless Usain Bolt or some other track and field star is giving the world a stellar performance; or some shallow, quasi-talented but socially useless and irresponsible performer takes the stage.

The problem with the current crisis is that those persons who originally sought to show solidarity, however misplaced, with this Don, have now been joined by every Tom, Dick, and Harry who had some kind of vendetta to resolve. Wanton attacks on police agents and army personnel, along with the razing of police stations and other infrastructure now seems to be the order of the day. We have lost our way as a people, and there are intrinsic deficiencies that politics cannot solve, nor can they be wished away like some annoying insect.

We have had so many champions as Black people in the persons of Marcus Garvey, Paul Bogle, Queen "Nanny" of the Maroons, Sir George William Gordon, Sir Alexander Bustamante, Martin Luther King, Malcolm X whom was Black, Muslim, and bisexual, if not gay (many persons don't know this), Robert Nesta Marley, Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff, Rosa Parks, Booker T. Washington, Harriet Tubman, and countless others, some still unknown to us. On top of this, we have a new generation of poets, writers, activists, et cetera, who are working tirelessly now to help Black people to remember who they are. Education is the key.

Still, we allow all the mistakes from the past to haunt us over, and over again; we are still enslaved, but to new and savagely powerful backra masters. When I read some of the comments that some of my fellow Jamaican brothers and sisters write on local media websites, I am very disheartened and, in some cases, just downright enraged by the levels of ignorance and hypocrisy that still obtain. These persons, who know how to use the internet to proliferate all kinds of garbage, but don't have the slightest clue as to how to research some facts on some of the things about which they are so opinionated. Then, they wonder why they are spoken of so disparagingly. What ever happened to emancipating ourselves from mental slavery?

There is another concern, though. Christopher Coke was indicted on counts of drug-running, and conspiracy to traffic in firearms, but he did not do this alone. What of his co-conspirators? Surely his notoriety does not preclude mention of these persons and the status of any actions which may, or may not be in progress against them in regards to this matter? Who are these co-conspirators, and what is being done to apprehend them, if they have not already been apprehended? Jamaica's crime problem is systemic, and cutting off the head of the hydra is hardly the solution; if you know hydras, once you cut off one head, two more grow back in its place. If the CEO is gone, the second-in-command likely takes over, and the other heads still remain. The same talent and creativity that helps us to excel in sports and other fields, also exists within the minds of the criminal elements, and informs their behaviour.

As the world watches another saga of Jamaica's profoundly mindless brutality and stupidity, we who have to endure the backlash of one Don man's disregard for law and order, and his subsequent pusillanimous decision to seek refuge God knows where, instead of facing up to his actions, are once again entertained by the horrors of slow-motion car crash images of Jamaica's quickly eroding social order, wondering, "When will this madness cease?" The best answer, "Perhaps never but, then again, hopefully soon..."

I wish love, light, peace, and safety to all of us who have to live this dreadful crisis. May glad tidings, and buoyant songs of normalcy soon fill our hearts and souls once more. To be clear, I don't wish for the normalcy of yesteryear to which we have grown accustomed, but the normalcy for which our ancestors fought and sacrificed themselves to secure for future generations...

Kaleidoscope of Moods

2010-05-18T20:34:00.012-05:00

Yesterday, 17 May 2010 was my birthday; it also marked the sixth anniversary of the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO), which has been observed by many nations around the world except, of course, Jamaica. The Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals, and Gays (JFLAG) held a small-scale, half-hour protest yesterday, the purpose of which I am not aware. However, I heard some talk of an assault on a couple of men who were gay or perceived to be gay, in the Halfway Tree area earlier in the week. Local media report that the protest was intentionally short to avoid any possible disturbances, reports which are all too familiar worldwide; there were no incidents of violence against the protesters, thankfully.

However, whatever negatively polarized discourse or other benefits which could have come from this protest, were eclipsed by rumours of civil unrest, resulting from a lengthy and torturous proverbial tug-of-war between the United States of America and Jamaica, regarding the extradition of one Christopher "Dudus" Coke on felonious charges. The Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Honourable Orett Bruce Golding may have finally conceded, and proceedings may now be underway towards that end. Mr. Golding reportedly tendered his resignation as Prime Minister, but his resignation was refused by his party; and, in an address to the nation last evening, Mr. Golding delivered what many believe to be a sincere apology for his questionable conduct in the extradition matter, a belief I neither share nor dispute, and everything is hunky dory once again.

As with most political rhetoric delivered on campaign bids the world over, promises were made for "greater transparency," "improved governance," among other things. In most cases, the majority of these promises fall on barren soil once these campaigns are over, and everything returns to business as usual. Last evening, the Prime Minister promised to make changes. All anyone can do is wait, for the future is not ours to see.

Still, in a contemporary society beleaguered by neverending crime and violence, one would think that whatever steps could be taken to reduce that crime and violence, within reason, and whatever could be done to improve the overall quality of life for citizens in an increasingly financially, socially and, consequently, emotionally volatile climate would be done.

That is not the case. Apart from the fact that for a supposedly "Christian" nation, with the most churches per square mile than any other nation apparently, we have one of the highest generic and extra-judicial murder rates per capita in the world, we are also notorious for our human rights abuses based on gender and sexual orientation, despite being bound by international treaties and conventions. Add to that our prejudice and discrimination against persons living with HIV, and we are well on our way to permanently claiming some of the worst labels and reputations this world can offer. The most recent statistics from the Commissioner himself, state that our murder clearance rate, for last year I believe, was a vague "under 40%"; whatever that is supposed to mean. If you have seen HBO's "The Wire," you may understand my cynicism.

President Anibal Cavaco Silva of Portugal recently ratified same-sex marriage legislation in the country. Bravo! In a world inundated with wickedness and hate, we could do with some more love, could we not? This, just days after an official visit from the Pope, and Portugal being a predominantly Catholic nation. The President pushed through the legislation, despite his own personal views, which he refused to discuss, because the nation had more pressing issues on its agenda. I say Prime Minister Golding could take a page from his book. Heavy is the head that wears the crown - and no one ever promised that leadership would be easy, if they did, they were lying - and that means making tough decisions, which may conflict with a leader's own personal beliefs, but which represent the needs of all his followers.

The Charter of Rights, and the Constitution of Jamaica, are documents which were debated within recent months, but still do not provide all law-abiding Jamaicans with equal protection and freedom of self-determination. These are provisions which I am sure absolutely belong in documents of that nature, if I am not mistaken, but have been deliberately avoided due to their controversial nature in the minds of our legislators and contributors.

The day has come for the good governance that was promised to Jamaicans; not some, not solely the rich, or the lighter-skinned Jamaicans, but to all. Perhaps I, and others of my generation, will die before we ever see a Jamaica that truly represents all Jamaicans, but hopefully, a truly visionary, determined leader will emerge to restore the people's faith in this land of wood and water, Jamaica land we love; whether that be a "reformed" Honourable Orett Bruce Golding, or someone else.

Chant à l'Haïti (Song for Haiti)

2010-01-26T10:39:00.008-06:00

The shattered glass stares of
political pawns in white man's chess;
cumulative debts rise unseemly to the heavens.

Earth hath unleashed her fury;
The tumescent tempest of voices silenced in the aftermath...
of freedom's suffrage to the nations...

Over and over and over again,
her tremors of destruction radiated outward,
Relieving the tensions she had long endured.

Ah, the terrible price of release!
What wrath her cathartic song hath wrought!
What suffering...

The dreadful melody of history,
of faith, magic, and life intertwined;
The rhythms of her new revolution.

The last strains of song ring out,
Earth's heroic antiphony doth proclaim,
"Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité!"

Disaster Strikes...

2010-01-19T18:11:00.006-06:00

A very Happy New Year to all my friends, readers, and well-wishers; as late as it may be (considering I had no internet access for more than two weeks).

On a different note, however, the catastrophe in Haiti a few days ago has really mobilized people from all over the world to come to the aid of an ailing nation. It has forced into our united view the uncomfortable reality of the transitory and vulnerable nature of our lives and our precious social order. Nature unapologetically makes no accommodations for human constructs and we are, once again, reminded of our vincibility.

All our hearts, prayers and, for those who can afford it, money go out to Haiti in her time of need, and rightfully so. However, none of us knows what dangers may be lurking around the corner. We in the Caribbean, and elsewhere around the world, need to be much more vigilant.

Reports are that an earthquake of lesser magnitude than that which occurred in Haiti (measuring 5.8 on the Richter scale), occurred in the Cayman Islands earlier today, but there have been no reports of injuries or fatalities up to this point, thankfully. Another earthquake also occurred today in Argentina, measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale. A magnitude 5.0 earthquake occurred off the coast of Chile late last evening and, perhaps, this could be the beginning of increased seismic activity, of significant intensity - that is 4.0 or higher - in South America and the Caribbean.

Jamaica is said to be overdue another major earthquake, with speculation that Kingston and St. Andrew could be ripped from the rest of the island in such an event. I am not sure what current hypothesis exists on that postulation, but that certainly does not bode well for the island. The photo above depicts some of the damage that occurred after a major earthquake in Port Royal, Jamaica, in 1907. Port Royal, once dubbed the "wickedest city on earth" had suffered a major blow in the 1600s, when an intense earthquake liquefied the sandy earth upon which the city stood, and thousands of people and buildings literally sank into the earth.

My mother felt the "outer bands" of the earthquake in Haiti which at first, I must admit, I did not feel. However, a moment later, I did feel it. It was almost imperceptible, but to my mother, who is an extraordinarily attuned woman, this was nothing new. Had I been alone in my room, I may not have felt it; or perhaps, I would have merely dismissed it as my imagination in overdrive once more.

The earth is in a constant state of change; we humans, however, who are so torturously insistent on abiding in antiquated paradigms while the world ever changes around us, seem to forget that we really are not in control. We intrepidly and, often foolishly, play our own tunes, which are often horrendously out of tune with the rest of the orchestra; Mother Nature, being the unfailing conductor that she is, often has to grab our attention in some way or another, and not always as gently as we would like.

The time to pay attention is now. Perhaps Global Warming, and other forces we may not have considered, may have more far-reaching and perilous implications than science may ever unearth. We must accept that while we may inhabit the earth, we are most definitely not in control now, nor have we ever been. Tomorrow may not exist for any of us; the time to impose, and maintain peace and harmony throughout the world, is now. We may not get another opportunity.

However, despite the personal and global catastrophes that may have beset our New Year thus far, we may all unite our hearts and minds in achieving the joyous, prosperous, and harmonious year we all envisioned with the advent of 2010. There is still time for us as nations and individuals to step boldly into the new paradigms that surround us, and break free of the antiquated moulds in which we have trapped ourselves.

2012

2009-11-26T20:09:00.006-06:00

Human beings seem to think that just because they live on the planet, they are immune to such phenomenon as extinction, and that the world will last for as long as they exist; they believe that anything happening outside of this planet is inconsequential, and irrelevant to their lives. Nothing could be further from the truth. We forget that this planet is, indeed, billions of years old, and that millions of years ago, there lived colossal creatures, which various branches of science refer to as dinosaurs; in fact, not quite similar to the present colloquial definition that exists, as if young people will not some day find themselves similarly categorized in the not-too-distant future.

However, human beings, not counting those who devote their lives to the study of such things, seem to forget the tumultuous history of this planet, and the countless celestial bodies and formations that are constantly being born, and those that are dying around them every day. The Earth is not immune to such occurrences and, as such, will one day likely be destroyed in some fashion or the other. Modern human beings exist on the Earth at a time in its life; there was a time before us and, at the rate at which we are going, there will be a time after us.

We have all by now heard the postulations that herald a disastrous end to humankind and the Earth as we know it. Certainly, there are those who do believe, and those who do not; but taking sides is not going to change what could be an eventuality, will it? Will the world end in December 2012? I do not know. However, I am sure we all remember the furore created leading up to the year 2000, and all technology did not end in the world, did it? No, quite the contrary. Do I believe that the world will end in 2012?

Look at it this way, the world, or life as we know it, could end tomorrow in a terrible encounter with a bus, or a stray bullet, for that matter; not to mention our temperamental bodies that could give out at any moment, for some un- or misdiagnosed reason or other. The point is, with things dying in the heavens all the time, we must by now realize that the Earth exists in a very volatile neighbourhood and we, as members of this earthly household, are just as susceptible to any things going on in our neighbourhood. I do know that there is overwhelming evidence to suggest that we may encounter a rather calamitous situation that is outside of our control; from the frighteningly accurate Mayan calendar, to the research of scientists that show that the alignment of several celestial bodies at once, creating quite a strain on the Earth could prove disastrous.

What really matters is how we live, and treat each other in this life which, we may all attest is quite short, and certainly not worth a lot of the unnecessary stress we often place on ourselves, and each other. In the end will we, as individuals, be able to reflect on our lives and say that we allowed ourselves to really live, fully, not hopelessly tied to the "societal" constructs others established to take the rudders for our lives out of our own hands? Will we be able to say that we were true to ourselves, despite the various meaningless and demeaning categorizations that exist; nerd, sissy, jock, et cetera, that are a detestable attempt to force us to conform to subjugating standards and moulds?

The advantage of being human is the ability to exercise free will; the joys of having a brain that allows an individual to think for him/herself and be able to reason out a decision, instead of acting purely on instinct. Arguably, there are those among us who are incapable of such feats, but the majority of us are, perhaps, not so incapacitated. Why then, do we seem hell-bent on destroying ourselves with our hypocrisy; those who are capable of greater humanity than they exhibit; those who preach religion, yet the most basic precepts seem to elude them - hence my penchant to identify as spiritual and not religious? Perhaps, we should blame it on the pastors and spiritual leaders! This is not a blanket indictment on all pastors and spiritual leaders, of course; I have thrown the corn, but called no fowls! We have big problems as a species.

So, essentially, we all need to decide whether we are going to take this as seriously as most Jamaicans take news of a hurricane, or if we will really take this seriously. Will we go and arm ourselves with the information that is available, in order that we may actually take an informed stance, or will we wallow in ignorance and jump on a bandwagon? We can decide to really live the "brothers' keeper" and "loving our neighbours as ourselves" concepts, or continue to misguidedly place importance on that which is unimportant, like the loathsome categorizations to which we cling.

If the world as we know it ends tomorrow in an intersection, or in approximately three years' time, how will we have lived? The future is but a dream to which we cling for hope, but today is reality; today's decision could be the last decision we ever make. What will that decision be? How would we each like to be remembered?

I have not seen the film "2012" and, at the expense of sounding cheap which, those who know me very well will refute, I don't plan to see it until it gets to cable, if it ever does; considering the current price of a ticket to the cinema, I think I will have to pass. Besides, apparently it ends in a cataclysmic flood which, by many accounts, is just a sliver of what may actually occur in December 2012.

Whatever happens, we will all be united in either ecstatic joy, or indescribable horror as a species, when December 2012 arrives, or not as the case may be. Who knows, the world could end long before that. We need to live now, like we have never lived before, and hope that the good we do in this life will be remembered; that we will not merely have existed, or been such nuisances that no one cares when we are no longer in this world...

Derision and Social Responsibility: To Laugh, or Not to Laugh?

2009-10-13T14:06:00.001-05:00

This contemporary world in which we live, forces mankind to confront the after-effects of centuries of abusive and self-destructive behaviours: global warming, the rapid depletion of the world's natural resources, among other things. However, some of the behaviours to which we now seldom, if ever pay attention, could very well be leading us down a path from which we may never return. As each new generation is exposed to certain gross behaviours that are seen as normal, or even permissible, humanity's funeral procession slowly progresses.

We have all seen films that depict terrible, stomach-turning acts of violence - often highly exaggerated, but "entertaining" nonetheless. We have seen television shows that replay individuals' unfortunate, and sometimes embarrassing mishaps for our enjoyment. The question we must ask ourselves is "Will the future cost be more than we can, or should be willing to bear?"

Each year brings new television creations out of the woodwork; some short-lived, but some remain on the airwaves for years. Some of these shows portray mishaps of young children, animals, and of course, adults. The kind of humour that many have been conditioned to derive from these incidents is the kind we should be endeavouring as much as possible to avoid.

When we consider the fact that we are living in a highly advanced technological age, and that as persons are driven more by career-oriented ambitions, children tend to suffer. The television set and internet often become the primary agents of socialization, exposing and inculcating in them attitudes and behaviours of which we may not necessarily approve. Restrictions on the television and internet may be circumvented; older siblings and friends may often have unrestricted access to content that is not necessarily wholesome for the kind of future we would like for ourselves. As the saying goes, "Children are our future."

The responsibility that adults have for the young is often spoken of, but practically ignored. There is more to be worried about than so-called mature content: depictions of sexual behaviours, nudity, adult language. There is a silent threat looming in the amorphous form of comedy.

The real problem is our initial instinctive reaction to certain mishaps: derision. Something as simple as someone losing his traction on a slippery surface and falling, or bumping his head on an object when his attention is divided, attracts such a cacophony of laughter that one has to pause for a moment and re-assess. Why is it that our first response is not concern for the individual who may have been hurt in the incident? What has gone so terribly wrong within us that the concept of concern so readily eludes us?

We constantly reinforce this in the content that is written and is available on television and the internet. We have programmed this behaviour into ourselves and our youth to such an extent that we may never be able to recover our instinctive empathy/sympathy. Was that instinctive construct even there in the first place?

Recently, there was an incident in western Jamaica that was covered in the media, and received an overwhelming response from citizens - but of the wrong kind. The responses of the general public to this particular incident was my inspiration for this post; people were more inclined to laugh at the misguided, and obviously brazen youth, than to use the situation as a tool for serious and objective discussion and contemplation about the culture that obtains here in Jamaica, and the seriously lacking responsibility we have towards our youth and their development. No doubt the young man learnt a very serious and lasting lesson from this incident, but what have we as individuals and as a nation learnt from it about ourselves? This particular young man may not harbour any resentment or other negative feelings towards the adults involved and their respective responses, but another young person might be a different story.

In profiling rapists and other perpetrators of serious crimes, we often look to their past and, in particular their childhood, for insights that might help us to deal with the seemingly broken individual we face today. Certainly the perpetrator is to blame for his/her actions, but are the adults who contributed to his brokenness not equally liable? What could have been done then to heal the fissures created by the overlooked abuse?

In many school killings, aren't the perpetrators quiet students who were constantly berated and derided; and often, aren't the administrators or other adults around silent or overly passive in their response to those perpetrators' assailants? We need to take this very seriously now, when the opportunity to heal and perhaps prevent some of this brokenness still exists. The signs are there for us to see.

We need to be more mindful of our reactions to certain situations because the youth are like sponges, constantly internalizing the things they see and experience in the world around them. We may be inadvertently creating an even more thoughtless, and unfeeling generation than already exists. We may never know what internal fissures caused Hitler, or that assailant we may have had in high school to be the way he was, but when an Hitler, or an Idi Amin becomes less of an aberration and more of a standard in the not-too-distant future, we may have more to worry about than would have been necessary if we had simply heeded the signs.

Below is the link to the article covering that incident in Western Jamaica:

13-Year-Old Forced to Seek Medical Attention After Unfortunate Incident

Early Morning Inspiration.

2009-09-30T23:39:00.011-05:00

Early Sunday morning, as sleep overtook my desire to stay up, I turned out my lights and went to bed. No sooner had my head touched the pillow, than the first lines of poetry I had written or even thought of in weeks began to fill my brain. This piece felt too important for me to allow it to pass, and I was quickly roused from my intended sleep to put pen to paper - so to speak, since the writing was being done on a laptop. The feedback I have received has been wonderful and, as this shall be my only post for this month, I think it a fitting piece for contemplation.

A Path to Love...

"In this moment,

where death could be my lot

for standing up for what I believe,

I could betray my soul to the shackles of life...

In this moment,

where I stand in dolorous solitude

against the throng,

I could succumb to the minions against my blessed intellect...

In this moment,

when Love seems

the harder tongue to speak,

I could dilate unrestrained from this place of anger...

In this moment,

when perfect opportunity exists

to tell you how I feel,

I could defer until sustaining breath no longer fills you...

In this moment,

when the pain is so unbearable

that I fear my heart may never heal,

I could become a spectator to my own demise...

In this moment,

where the defenceless

I could run to aid,

I could surrender to the cowardly path...

For in this fleeting life,

where infinite, self-contained possibilities abound,

I choose my own fate;

so do we all.

Insofar as we allow

the fresh springs of Love to flow,

even when disinclined to believe,

we know that there will always be a choice."

A Life Well-Spent

2009-08-30T01:06:00.020-05:00

Last evening, my friend Kacy hosted her final evening of "Floetry" before she leaves for Switzerland to pursue further study. Floetry is an event that she conceptualized a few months ago: an evening of family-oriented poetry, where any- and everyone is welcome to contribute. She hosted the début night in February of this year, and I assisted her by co-hosting the event in a subsequent month. Last evening, neither of us came with a piece prepared but, since it was her last time hosting the event until she returns, we decided that we would both write and perform a piece.

She performed a beautiful and well-written piece about Jamaica: her independence, her people, and her beauty. My piece may be considered non-objective by some and, to others, perhaps not.

A Life Well-Spent

"Drops of blood,
floating oil-like
in a pond of tears:
the sub-conscious;
the algae of torment and sadness
adding beauty to
that which is already brimming
with flowers,
and pond-dwelling creatures.

The frogs of temptation
leaping to the sun;
poisons spinning out of control.
Flying-fish trapped in pond lilies;
stagnant water smelling to high heaven,
the sub-conscious teems with
dying life:
choking and suffocating,
asphyxiating with murkiness,
the sub-conscious of a mind
slowly losing itself;
the horrendous futility of a life well-spent."

In Memoriam: Kwame.

2009-08-27T16:00:00.006-05:00

For the past few weeks or so, my mind has been on a friend of mine from my high school. The persistence of old memories, and the intense need to satisfy once and for all my hunger for the truth, brought me to Google his name yesterday; the fear I had been trying to suppress for so long was undeniably confirmed: he had indeed felt compelled to take his own life. This happened in August 2005.

Still, the sadness that hit me was fresh; the pain was as new as if it had happened yesterday. For four years I heard the rumours. Perhaps I was afraid to know the truth; or, even more shameful, perhaps I was disinclined to know the truth. Now, I know the truth.

Kwame was an intelligent, talented, wonderful young man; arrogant, yes, but a treasure nonetheless. He was 21 years of age when unfortunate incidents and the pain he subsequently had to endure, led him to take his life. The incidents leading to his death, I shall not get into at this point, as my intention is to highlight the spirit of this young man.

My last memories are of him in sixth form (12th or 13th grade). For a number of years, the Spanish Club at our school would enter the Spanish Festival; a festival brimming with life as students from all over the island would come together for healthy competition, displaying their talents and knowledge of Spanish culture. From dancing, to elocution, to food, you name it, it was there.

He was very much into Latin dancing and Spanish culture. For about three years in a row, I was the main choreographer for the Spanish Club's entries in the Dance component of the competition. Kwame approached the dancing and my artistry with respect, vigour, and dedication. It also helped that he was an excellent dancer! He often contributed and even choreographed some pieces in previous years, and his energy was infectious. We achieved gold medals for most of that period and one year got the silver. Perhaps not too many people knew that side of him; most probably knew Kwame, the aspiring body-builder, as is clearly shown in the photograph.

He was the sort of friend that anyone would be lucky to have. One would usually be met with a wide and engaging smile that would fix even the worst of days. He was a good companion, and always vocal on topics about which he was passionate. I sincerely regret that I did not get to spend as much time with him as others did, but it doesn't matter. He left enough of an impression on my life in high school which, was no cakewalk I might add.

The wounds for me, are fresh, while others have had four years to adjust. The common expression is incorrect, unfortunately: time is not the healer of all wounds, but Love.

Requiem aeternam et lux perpetua luceat ei.

Gay Rights in Jamaica: At a Standstill?

2009-08-25T16:24:00.022-05:00

By now, you may be familiar with the stance of many of Jamaica's leading politicians and government officials on GLBT rights. On the surface, things may seem not to have changed much, if at all; but with increasing pressure from GLBT groups and allies, the visibility of Jamaica's problem remains very high, and government officials are, perhaps, gradually finding themselves hard-pressed to address the issue.

With the advent of "...not [gays] in my cabinet ...", has come resounding agreement from much of the Jamaican public; but still there are others - GLBTs and non-GLBTs alike - who are disheartened by the government's refusal to take a step in a direction that will hopefully, eventually allow these disenfranchised Jamaican citizens to live openly and honestly as worthwhile members of society, while allowing them legal recourse in matters concerning their health and safety, for example.

Rising concern with generic present and projected rates of HIV infection, and the various forms of abuse that LGBT citizens face, will most likely be the platforms on which government officials may decide to tackle this issue in the unforeseeable future. Perhaps the only thing that continues to fuel this heated debate is the widespread access to technology: human rights violations within the country cannot be ignored, as incidents may be easily made known to various media and groups outside of the island.

There has been overwhelming support for Jamaica's GLBT citizens from the international community. Various campaigns have been launched to raise awareness on this issue; the most recent perhaps being the Boycott Jamaica campaign, focused on Red Stripe Beer and Myers Rum, launched in San Francisco by Michael Petrelis et al, and preceded by the boycott of vocally "homophobic" (as opposed to heterosexist? I don't know) dancehall artistes. The former campaign, i.e. the boycott of certain dancehall artistes, was seemingly successful, but some undercurrents still exist and are flourishing. The situation in Jamaica seems unlikely to see any great advancements any time soon, but the winds of change are blowing...

The links below lead to recent articles by Jamaica Observer columnist, Diane Abbott.

Article: Homophobia in Jamaica

Article: Gay Rights: A Delicate Issue

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