Coral Gardens Commemoration, is an annual memorial for the Ras Tafari brothers and sisters who were killed, wounded and shamed for their livity. Good Friday, 1963 was a horrific experience for many Ras Tafari people. After an isolated incident involving a “bearded man” (not necessarily of the Ras Tafari faith) the government commanded the police force to gather and bring Rastafarians, dead or alive. The events that followed remain in the nightmare archives of survivors, their families and many Rastafarian people.
Given the history, it is not surprising that many Rasta refer to this day as “bad friday” Indeed, it is ironic that Good Friday was the day chosen to shorn, beat and kill innocent people because of their faith, lifestyle, religion etc..
I arrived in Montego Bay nine years ago a couple of days before Good Friday. I met some very kind folks early on. A bredren invited me to attend the Coral Gardens Commemoration. At the time I was in the process of documenting the history of Ras Tafari. The event was a perfect opportunity to gather data, interviews, photos etc. Whelmed by the energy of the ceremonies, I did nothing of the sort. But I did meet a few friends and the man that is now my husband. I made connections that night that greatly enhance my life and Jamaican experience. Although we aren’t able to attend Coral Gardens this year, Good Friday is a mindful day for us. May we remember to honor those who have gone before so that InI might live in life…
When I read your post this morning I was still under the spell of a wonderful experience of the procession that is tradition here on Good Friday. It made me land again with my both feet on the ground and realize how religion has many sides.
I hope both our wishes come true!