A Christian dance group wants an investigation in the circumstances surrounding how the former arbiter of the National Cultural Foundation handled their complaint about disqualification from NIFCA. And the group also plans to take the case to court.
The Praise Academy of Dance Barbados had filed an official complaint with the NCF’s then arbiter, Senator Gregory Nicholls, after the group’s performance called ‘Speak Life’, was disqualified from the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts, NIFCA.
The group says the performance presented a Christian viewpoint of gender identity and sexual orientation.
They argued that the decision of the NIFCA judging panel to disqualify the group was illegal and unconstitutional and indicated their intention to take legal action after the arbiter for the dispute, Senator Nicholls, upheld the NIFCA judges’ decision.
The dance group says in a news release that while Senator Nicholls has revoked his decision, the ruling of the NIFCA judges remains unchanged.
The release adds that after reaching out to the Christian Legal Centre in the UK for support, Praise Academy is currently consulting with its legal team to determine its next course of action and is calling for an investigation into the actions of Senator Nicholls.
Spokesperson for the group Marcia Weekes, briefed Starcom Network News.
Marcia Weekes of Praise Academy of Dance.
Meantime, Senator Nicholls, tells Starcom Network News his term as NCF arbiter has ended.
He confirmed he has rescinded his decision and explained why.
Former NCF arbiter, Senator Gregory Nicholls.
