In an unprecedented display of communal unity, thirty-two Rastafari organizations have coalesced to initiate the Relief, Rebuild & Rise (RRR) fundraising webathon. This groundbreaking initiative emerges from the community’s recognition that mainstream disaster response mechanisms have systematically failed to address their unique cultural and practical requirements in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.
The February 1st event, strategically timed with the commencement of Black History and Reggae Month, represents a paradigm shift toward self-determined recovery. Organizers have identified a critical funding target of US$500,000 to address what they describe as institutional neglect of their specific needs, including dietary restrictions and the restoration of sacred spaces.
Ras Biah Evans, co-chair of the Rastafari Mansions and Organizations (RMO), articulated the philosophical foundation behind this movement: ‘For decades, our community has maintained self-reliance as a survival strategy against marginalization. Conventional support systems cannot accommodate our ital dietary requirements, health practices, and cultural protocols. Therefore, our recovery must be community-directed.’
The initiative has garnered remarkable support from internationally acclaimed artists, including Grammy winners Julian Marley, Gramps Morgan, and Kabaka Pyramid, alongside Ghana’s multi-Grammy nominee Rocky Dawuni. The performance roster further features Sister Carol, Yami Bolo, Jah9, Spragga Benz, and Hempress Sativa—all contributing to this historic effort.
Sister Samantha Fagan, RMO executive secretary, noted the overwhelming enthusiasm from entertainers: ‘Solidarity begins at home. Many artists either identify as Rastafari or work within reggae circles profoundly influenced by our culture. When they witness a community-led initiative seeking strength, support becomes automatic.’
Julian Marley emphasized the collective nature of the endeavor: ‘Our resilience stems from togetherness. We urgently hope for global support from open hearts worldwide.’
The live-streamed event, accessible through RDDM Media, will originate from the Bob Marley Museum with a 10:30 AM launch. Proceeds will primarily reconstruct five Rastafari community centers devastated by the Category 5 hurricane, establishing operational bases for delivering targeted aid to the most vulnerable community members.
Dr. Kerida McDonald, RMO public relations officer and former United Nations senior advisor, framed the initiative within broader historical context: ‘Rastafari philosophy centers on redemption and self-determination. These rebuilt centers will function as trusted community organizations capable of partnering with government and humanitarian agencies in Jamaica’s recovery, particularly in food security through ital farming and sustainable livelihood creation.’
Beyond immediate relief, organizers envision constructing hurricane-resilient infrastructure. First Man Edward Wray, an RMO founding member, explained: ‘Temporary rebuilding using available materials like zinc and fallen poles is underway. However, we seek international partners providing financial and technical assistance for disaster-proof designs, enabling our community to focus on long-term development rather than recurrent reconstruction.’