SANTERIA

In regard to “Power of the Orishas ,” by Rick Mitchell (Feb. 7): I believe several million Cubans would be very surprised to learn that they have practiced the religion at one time or another. That is true in the same way in which everyone who has thrown a pinch of salt over his shoulder or carried a rabbit’s foot practices witchcraft.

It is misleading to describe someone who consults a santero for advice and fortunetelling as someone who practices Santeria, since the implication is that that person advocates the use of animals in ritualistic killing. That reprehensible practice is limited to those who have been initiated into the religion and to those who hold the position of a “priest.”

To connect Cubans to this religion is to attach a stigma to those of us who, for the most part, have come to this country to make a better life for ourselves and our families in freedom, and who hold and practice traditional Christian values.

MARILYN A. FLORES

Tarzana