A former member of Grace Road Church (GRC) has made alarming allegations about the treatment of workers associated with the church, claiming they are subjected to conditions akin to slavery. The woman, who chose to remain anonymous, escaped from GRC’s True Mart Navua last week after nearly eight years within the organization.
She stated that employees are forced to work in grueling conditions, often spending 12 hours a day, seven days a week, with minimal respite. The ex-member expressed her desire to bring attention to the plight of approximately 300 workers, urging the Fijian public to reconsider their patronage of GRC-affiliated businesses.
Initially, work weeks were reduced to six days to accommodate Sunday worship, but she noted that worship services were often followed by further labor on church grounds. Her experiences encompassed various ongoing labor tasks ranging from farm work to kitchen duties, where she described the physically demanding nature of the tasks.
Concerned about the welfare of both children and the elderly within the church, she reported that families were separated upon their arrival in Fiji, with infrequent visitation permission. This isolation, she claimed, left many without necessary support, including healthcare, as even elderly members were expected to work despite their health condition.
Her husband, who remains within the church, defended its practices, characterizing family separation as a normal circumstance in their community. He emphasized that this situation should be recognized as a private matter rather than one involving the church at large.
There have previously been reports of concerning incidents at the GRC farm, including the discovery of two Korean nationals found in poor health conditions and confined to a locked room, as revealed by immigration officials conducting investigations.
GRC has yet to offer a response to the serious allegations made by the former member.
This situation raises critical questions about labor rights and the treatment of individuals in religious organizations. Such allegations underscore the need for investigations and reforms to ensure all workers, regardless of their affiliation, are protected by labor laws and treated with dignity and respect.
In this troubling matter, it remains hopeful that by raising awareness, positive change can occur, safeguarding the rights of vulnerable individuals and preventing such exploitation within religious communities.
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