The wearing of hair in 'Dreadlocks' is not a matter of style nor a fashion statement. 'Dreadlocks' are a visible symbol of religious solidarity with other wearers, the equivalent of a Star of David to Jews or a cross to Christians. Neither Jew nor Christian tolerate the misuse of the symbols in a light way and nor in the main are these symbols used out of context. So why is it that 'dreadlocks' are not treated in the same way.
The wearing of the hair in 'dreadlocks' shows that the wearer is a follower of Ras Ta, the Lion of God and the last direct messenger that was sent to the earth to right the wrongs of human beings. Ras Ta was the last emperor of Ethiopia, Haille Salassie. This is the man that those referred to as 'Rastafarians' worship. He or she would not change their hair anymore than a Sikh would shave his head.
But the religious symbology is not to be ignored nor should it be converted to fashion for the ignorant masses. We do not see the women of the west suddenly wearing a burka, full body cover with hood and veil, to a gallery opening or to the shopping mall, it would be blasphemous. The men of the west have not on an impulse decided to wear turbans of bright colours to do their banking and drink beer in pubs. That, again, would be blasphemous and shunned at all costs. To offend those of another faith by adopting the dress is not something to do lightly nor would offending those whose faith the wearer would profess to have regardless of appearance.
Each should be allowed their own way to see the universe and their individual roles within it. If this includes an outward manifestation to show solidarity with others who see the world as they do there should be no problem. But to take any of those manifestations and corrupt it by using it as a fashion concept, a style idea is, frankly, repugnant
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