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Last night, we told you about the allegation which emerged out of Dangriga that a specific bank was preventing its employees from talking Garifuna among themselves or with employees. But no names were called. That ended today when it all busted out on social media – where First Caribbean Bank was accused by name. To back that up, the US based United Garifuna Association released a statement today saying it too has received reports, which it has allegedly confirmed. The UGAI says that its information is that Garifuna employees were warned several times against speaking the language among themselves or with customers, and that quote, "only English must be spoken." End quote.

Well, First Caribbean International Bank responded with a strong press release today saying that there is no such policy at any of its branches, and neither have any of the employees been discouraged from expressing themselves culturally. The Bank reminds everyone that it was the first to establish branches in the districts, starting with Dangriga Town in 1953.

They note that they've observed all and revered all Garifuna celebrations in the country, and that they've welcomed and respected those who are of the Garifuna Culture. They add that employees are free to speak whatever language they are comfortable with in their private conversations. Finally, they refute any claim that any Garifuna employee was suspended because of the use of the language.

The UGAI says that it is not only in Dangriga that Garifuna employees are being discouraged from doing it in their workplace. They say that resort owners and managers in Hopkins have also allegedly instructed their Garifuna employees not to use the language while on the job. The organization says that any such attempt are considered "violations of Human Rights of indigenous people".