Gloriavale Community Provides Ready-Made Talking Points to Counter Slavery Allegations

By Paula Penfold

Recent developments have sparked controversy as the West Coast Christian Community, known as Gloriavale, has reportedly distributed a document containing pre-written talking points for individuals opposing their inclusion in a class-action lawsuit over alleged slave-like labor practices. The document, authored by a Gloriavale leader, has been criticized by former residents as being "infantilizing", suggesting that the community is attempting to control the narrative around its labor practices.

The allegations against Gloriavale stem from a previous case in the Employment Court, where six former residents, including Pearl Valor, successfully argued that they were employees, not volunteers, while working in the community. This ruling has now paved the way for a broader class-action lawsuit, with the new document appearing to be a strategic move to undermine these claims.

The talking points provided in the document include statements such as:

• "I was not forced to work and was given time off for personal needs."
• "The community provided food, shelter, and a sense of purpose."
• "I chose to stay because I felt welcomed and supported."

However, former residents have dismissed these statements as misleading. One former member described the document as an attempt to "polish the image of a community that has long been criticized for its treatment of its members."

Legal representative Brian Henry, who is representing the plaintiffs, has expressed concern over the document. He stated, "This is an attempt to manipulate the narrative and downplay the serious allegations of exploitation and coercion. The community must be held accountable for its actions, and this document only highlights the need for transparency and legal scrutiny."

Despite the controversy, Gloriavale has not officially commented on the document or the allegations. However, the community has been under increasing public and legal pressure in recent years, with multiple reports of mistreatment and lack of autonomy for its members.

The case is being closely watched by human rights advocates and legal experts, who believe it could set a significant precedent for similar communities across the country. As the legal battle continues, the debate over Gloriavale’s practices will likely remain in the public eye.