The Editor, Sir:

Zahra Redwood made the front page of The Gleaner on May 21. Well, that is good publicity for her.

Historically, Miss Universe compe-titions started out as a 'bathing beauty' competition spearheaded by Catalina Swimwear in Long Beach, and has now metamorphosed into an international annual tradition. This information can be found at their website.

In the article titled 'Dreadlocked Miss Jamaica puts Rastas in New Light', I agree with her statement that people criticise what they do not know or understand.

I agree, for I do not understand why a Rastafari mother earth is in a beauty pageant. Sure, possibly seeking the benefits of the exposure and the package deal that the title brings. Also, possibly to have the ego of beauty and self-image exalted in the media.

She stated, "you're looking at the beauty of the mind, body and soul". Whatever that means, it all forms the I. And, as someone who is possibly aspiring to be a leader, a leader should submit one's self to a stricter self-discipline and develop a more exemplary character than is expected of others.

If one can assist in building a woman's mind and character, why on earth in a beauty pageant? Beauty pageants are superficial, unless deemed otherwise. If so, it would no longer be a beauty pageant, but possibly an annual meeting of Miss Universes who are collectively meeting to discuss the developing or developmental community projects of their region and, as such, this pageant would give sponsorship in order to assist in eradicating some of the issues that plague their region's local communities.

A Rastafarian beauty queen cannot put a Rastafari woman in a new light, only superficiality, unless proven otherwise.

I am, etc.,

WAYZARO DOJN

dojn_maureen@hotmail