Slowjamastan: San Diego DJ Establishes Unique Desert Nation (Photos)

Discover Slowjamastan: A Unique Micronation

Welcome to Slowjamastan

In the heart of the California desert, a barren plot of land has been transformed into a self-declared micronation known as Slowjamastan. This extraordinary initiative, led by Randy “R Dub!” Williams, illustrates the growing trend of folks claiming their own territories and creating unique societies.

Welcome to Slowjamastan: Out in the California desert, a plot of barren land has been turned into a new 'country' -- a self-declared micronation.
Welcome to Slowjamastan: Out in the California desert, a plot of barren land has been turned into a new ‘country’ — a self-declared micronation.

The Sultan of Slowjamastan

Randy “R Dub!” Williams, a late-night slow jams DJ from San Diego, has appointed himself as the Sultan of Slowjamastan. His ambitions include creating a unique identity for his micronation, showcasing the blend of music culture and novel governance.

The sultan: Randy 'R Dub!' Williams has appointed himself as 'the Sultan of Slowjamastan' after creating the country.
The sultan: Randy “R Dub!” Williams, a late-night “slow jams” DJ from San Diego, has appointed himself as “the Sultan of Slowjamastan” after creating the country.

Unusual Citizenship and Regulations

Slowjamastan has developed its system for issuing passports to its citizens. Williams proudly claims to have had his Slowjamastan passport stamped by 16 different countries, showcasing how micro-nations often interact with larger nations.

Papers, please: Slowjamastan issues its own passports to people who have signed up to become citizens.
Papers, please: Slowjamastan issues its own passports to people who have signed up to become citizens.

The Cultural Landscape of Slowjamastan

Interestingly, Slowjamastan has its own unique prohibitions that reflect its distinct cultural identity. Prohibited “items” include Crocs, mumble rap, and even people putting their feet on the dashboard. Visitors must be aware of these quirky laws to avoid penalties.

Tourist attraction: Citizens and visitors to Slowjamastan must be mindful of bizarre prohibitions.
Tourist attraction: Citizens and visitors to Slowjamastan must be mindful of bizarre prohibitions to avoid banishment.

Fast Facts about Slowjamastan

  • Location: Off California State Route 78, a two-and-a-half-hour drive northwest of San Diego.
  • Population: Over 500 registered citizens and approximately 4,500 conditionally approved individuals.
  • Currency: Slowjamastan prints its own currency known as the duble.
  • National Animal: The elusive Slowjamastan raccoon.
California dreaming: Officially named The United Territories of The Sovereign Nation of The People's Republic of Slowjamastan.
California dreaming: Officially named The United Territories of The Sovereign Nation of The People’s Republic of Slowjamastan.

The Governance of Slowjamastan

Williams describes his leadership style as predominantly a dictatorship, although he occasionally allows for voting on important issues like the national fruit and animal. This blend of governance highlights the often satirical nature of micronationalism.

Dub dictatorship: 'We're a dictatorship most of the time', Williams says.
Dub dictatorship: ‘We’re a dictatorship most of the time’, Williams says.


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