Hello, I read your opinion which I find very interesting as I am preparing for first dan in karate in April ( I hope). In in Belgium in my federation your instructor award you your belts up to brown included after that the belts are awarded by a independent panel which has several juries which are all composed of one and often two high ranking senseis from the major karate schools (shotokan,shito-ryu,wado-ryu and goju-ryu). I feel that this is good approach as it sets expectations at the same level for everyone and it avoids the buddy buddy aproach. Also I have noticed the following a couple of months before each shodan shaken (exam) the commission provides a free workshop for all karatekas from brown belt (1kyu) up this is basically a practice exam that lets you see how you measure up to expectations. I was astounded at the difference in levels between brown belts of different dojos some were not able to some of the simplest techniques. Because of this I feel that and independent panel adds some credibility to our black belts. Also to many times I have run into “self proclaimed” black belts that are frankly not up to par and do a disservice to all martial arts. I do agree that obtaining a belt should not be a goal as of such but certainly it can perceived as encouragement along the way…
