A Rastafarian individual has lodged a complaint with the British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal against the Surrey Pretrial Services Centre, citing mistreatment due to his religious practices. The tribunal, led by member Laila Said Alam, has set a hearing for June 23, after Surrey Pretrial Services denied any discriminatory conduct towards the complainant, David Somers.
To support his case, Somers aimed to include an expert report by Jah Lex, a Rastafarian elder from the Bobd Shanti Rastafari order, titled “Rastafari movement, culture, way of life and spiritual realms.” However, the centre contested its admissibility, arguing it did not meet the necessary expert report standards. Alam acknowledged the tribunal’s discretion in admitting evidence that it finds “necessary and appropriate” regardless of court standards.
Somers seeks compensation for perceived damage to his self-respect and dignity. Alam noted that the debate surrounding the religious necessity of a head covering in Rastafarianism is indeed a significant legal matter. She recognised Jah Lex’s qualifications to discuss the tenets of Rastafarianism and believed his proposed evidence was admissible under the tribunal’s criteria.
The respondent raised concerns about the relevance of Lex’s report, which appeared to lack context regarding his expertise. Alam acknowledged some validity in these concerns and indicated certain aspects of Lex’s testimony would be inadmissible, cautioning Somers on what constitutes appropriate expert witness evidence. In conclusion, Alam accepted Jah Lex’s Report as a summary of opinion, allowing him to testify during Somers’ case and face examination by both parties.
A Rastafarian man has filed a human rights complaint against Surrey Pretrial Services Centre, claiming mistreatment due to his religious beliefs. A hearing is set for June 23, during which the admissibility of an expert report by Jah Lex, a Rastafarian elder, will be discussed. Somers seeks compensation for the harm to his dignity and self-respect, amid disputes over the relevance of expert testimony.
In conclusion, the case highlights significant issues surrounding religious expression within correctional settings and the complexities of legal definitions regarding expert testimony. While Somers pursues justice for his alleged mistreatment, the tribunal has acknowledged the relevance of Rastafarian beliefs in legal discussions. The upcoming hearing will further explore these intricate matters and determine the outcome of Somers’ complaint.
Original Source: www.surreynowleader.com
