Community News
The dynamic and immersive adventure of RastaFest 2023
BY SIMONE J. SMITH
“Look to Africa where a black king shall be crowned, he shall be your Redeemer.”
The Honourable Marcus Garvey
This prophecy articulated by the Honourable Marcus Garvey was rapidly followed by the crowning of Emperor Haile Selassie I in Ethiopia. Rastafarians saw this as the fulfillment of Garvey’s prophecy, and Rastas, as members of the movement, have been called, and continue to serve their calling. They see their past, present, and future in a distinct way, and on Thursday August 17th, 2023, the Toronto community had the opportunity to: learn, tap into, and fully enjoy the Rastafari experience at Rasta Fest 2023.
The Rastafari movement began in Jamaica during the 1930s following a prophecy made by the Honourable Marcus Garvey. Garvey led an organization known as the Universal Negro Improvement Association, with the intention of unifying Blacks with their land of origin.
Rastafarianism has often been misunderstood and misrepresented in mainstream media and popular culture. This has led to cultural appropriation and misappropriation of Rastafarian symbols, music, and style without an understanding of their spiritual significance. Rastafarian communities, especially in Jamaica, have faced social and economic challenges such as poverty and marginalization. These challenges have sometimes led to tensions and conflicts with the wider society.
In some countries, Rastafarianism has struggled to gain official recognition as a legitimate religion. This lack of recognition can impact issues such as freedom of religious expression and access to certain rights and privileges.
Rastafarianism is complex and multifaceted. The controversies surrounding the movement often arise from: misunderstandings, stereotypes, and clashes with societal norms. For these reasons, festivals like Rasta Fest hold significant importance because it allows for a full exploration of the religion, answering questions and clearing up many of the misconceptions associated with the religion.
Once again, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited out by DiversityTalk, a leading consulting firm specializing in health policy and equity projects. The team at DiversityTalk believe the most effective solutions are rooted in the community and driven by the needs of individuals and communities. That’s why they are dedicated to engaging with communities and working collaboratively with their clients to design and execute solutions that are both innovative and effective.
Partnering with them this year was GreenPort, the first Cannabis company in Canada run by a woman of colour. Vivianne Wilson has proactively educated the West Indian community on the power of cannabis healing, reminding us all that it was made a tool to target racialized communities. Her goal: to bring cannabis back to its roots and help the community overstand that it is a plant that not only brings people together, but also heals.
Anticipation was in the air, on Thursday August 17th, 2023, when the community congregated at the Nia Centre of the Arts located at 524 Oakwood Ave. From enlightening conversations about Rastafari traditions to immersive workshops and discussions, there was something for everyone.
Whether guests were curious about Rastafari culture, looking to network with like-minded individuals, or simply wishing to be a part of a transformative experience all were welcomed with open arms.
The Thursday afternoon opening ceremonies included: the Emancipation Walk, Flag Raising and Marcus Garvey Tribute from Vaughan and Oakwood to the Nia Centre. Conversations with Masani Montague and Donisha Prendergast, an “Art of Crochet” workshop with Legin Knits, and guided meditation session to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.
There were also herbalism sessions about Afro-diasporic foods and herbs, and discussion, which provided insight into medicinal ganja/cannabis with Shan Mei T Young, RPN, and dialogue on ganja’s ties with Rastafari culture and the Canadian cannabis landscape, and we can’t forget the ital Food Sampling brought to you by Caribbean Love. All the event activities were curated to deepen one’s overstanding of the ties between ganja (cannabis) and Rastafari culture.
To end the successful opening ceremonies, guests had a chance to be part of a drumming circle, bringing the community together and fostering a sense of belonging. In that moment, the group was connected through rhythm, creating bonds that might not otherwise have formed. It provided a safe and inclusive space for RastaFest guests to interact and share their experiences.
Friday, August 18th, and Saturday August 19th were the outdoor celebrations, and the pride of Rastafarianism was felt throughout the city.
It was a dynamic and immersive adventure that engaged the senses. From the moment I stepped onto the festival grounds, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of excitement, camaraderie, and a vibrant blend of sights, sounds, and aromas.
I was greeted by a visually striking scene. Colourful banners, stages adorned with intricate designs, and vibrant art installations set the tone for the event. The sight of crowds dressed in all sorts of festival attire, from bohemian outfits to outrageous costumes, it all added to the unique atmosphere. The bass reverberated through the air, making the ground beneath my feet pulse with the rhythm.
Food trucks and stalls offered a diverse range of culinary delights, from comfort food to international cuisine. The smell of freshly cooked meals, grilled meats, sweet treats, and even the distinct aroma of herbal smoke created a unique sensory experience. I had a chance to savour a variety of foods that catered to my different tastes and dietary preferences.
The feel of the sun on my skin, and the breeze ruffling my hair, it all created a multisensory experience. As the sun set, the festival atmosphere transformed. The stage lit up, creating a magical ambiance. Guests had a chance to fulljoy performances by: Majestic Warriors, Donna Makeda, Sativa Black 1, Polly Pumpie, Carl Henry, Empress Divine, Jade Faith, Richie Flo, Korexion, Ella Trema, and Bobo Julius.
RastaFest offered a chance to disconnect from the routines of daily life and immerse myself in an alternate reality. The combination of music, nature, art, and community provided a temporary escape that was invigorating and rejuvenating. Overall, the experience of RastaFest was a multi-dimensional journey that tapped into the senses, and emotions. It was an opportunity to celebrate Rastafarianism, create memories, and be part of something larger than myself.