Rastafarians in Barbados may have reported discrimination because of their religious beliefs, according to a new United States report, but Barbados is still among those countries with the highest level of respect for religious freedom.
The 2011 International Religious Freedom Report, released by the United States State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour on Monday, said the country is doing a good job of protecting and promoting religious freedom.
However, it mentioned concerns and complaints from members of the Rastafarian faith.
“There were a few reports of societal abuses or discrimination based on religious affiliation, belief, or practice, specifically from Rastafarians, who complained of discrimination, especially in hiring and in schools,” it said, although not highlighting any specific incidents.
The report added that Rastafarians had also complained that the use of marijuana, which is prohibited in Barbados, is “integral to their religious rituals”. (DP)
