A Korean American woman has shared alarming claims regarding her nearly eight-year experience with Grace Road Church (GRC) in Fiji, alleging that the church operates under conditions akin to slavery. She recently escaped from True Mart Navua and has spoken out about the harsh working conditions faced by individuals at the church.
The woman, who remains anonymous, described a grueling schedule where workers labored for 12 hours a day, seven days a week, often without any breaks. She has emphasized the inhumane treatment that she and others endured, stating that many families are separated upon arrival in Fiji, with limited opportunities for contact. This separation reportedly extends to her children, who were primarily cared for by other church members.
According to her account, even elderly individuals were coerced into working on the church’s farms despite their health issues, and proper medical care was not provided. She recounted specific instances of older workers being forced to complete physically demanding tasks regardless of their condition.
Her husband, who remains with GRC, provided a counterpoint, defending the church’s practices by claiming that family separation is a normal occurrence. He suggested that the concerns raised should not involve the church but be treated as a personal matter.
This woman’s claims come on the heels of previous reports highlighting concerning incidents at GRC, including the discovery of two unwell individuals locked in a room at the church’s farm, as noted by immigration officials last year.
GRC has yet to respond to these allegations. The woman’s call for transparency and governmental assistance reflects a deep desire for justice not only for herself but for others who may be experiencing similar hardships.
These serious claims bring to light critical issues surrounding worker rights and the treatment of individuals within the GRC community. By raising awareness, the hope is that measures can be taken to ensure the safety and dignity of all individuals involved.
In summary, a former member of GRC has alleged significant mistreatment and conditions resembling slavery at the church in Fiji, raising urgent questions about the organization’s practices and the welfare of its members.
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