A former employee of Grace Road Church (GRC) has come forward with alarming allegations of physical abuse in the workplace, describing her experience as akin to “slavery.” This woman, a Korean American who recently escaped from GRC’s True Mart Navua after eight years, detailed instances where she and other workers would endure severe beatings from supervisors for disobedience or mistakes.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, she recounted the brutal methods allegedly used, including being struck with long wooden sticks and physically assaulted by multiple individuals at once. The church reportedly justified these actions as a means of steering individuals back to God, causing distress and fear among the members.
Her escape was triggered by an incident where she was reprimanded after voicing her frustration about working late instead of spending time with her four-year-old daughter. This concern culminated in a punishment that left her feeling demoralized and in physical pain. She expressed worry about sustaining a concussion from the blows received.
Following her escape, she reported the abuse to the Human Trafficking Unit of the Fiji Police Force, who have confirmed that they are currently investigating these serious allegations. The woman is also seeking government assistance to reunite with her children, aged four and 13, who remain at the GRC Navua farm.
As these allegations prompt scrutiny of GRC’s practices, they highlight the importance of addressing and preventing abuse in any employment setting. The situation underscores the need for protective measures for vulnerable individuals, particularly in environments under religious or authoritative influence.
These serious claims, if substantiated, could lead to significant reforms within GRC and prompt broader discussions on labor rights and the treatment of workers across various sectors. It’s a challenging time for those involved, but with awareness comes the potential for change and healing.
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