Deandrea Hamilton
Editor
#TurksandCaicosIslands, October 6, 2023 – Following the release of video and a statement accusing a brash villa rental manager of racism, a local decorator’s outcry has caught the attention of the Minister of Immigration and Border Services who commended her for speaking up.
In a statement issued on Sunday October 1, Arlington Musgrove describes Cory Gulka, as a bully, promises a review of legislation to ensure expatriates are clear on how government expects them to treat people while on permit and announced an investigation of the matter.
“I am appalled at the treatment of a Turks and Caicos Islanders, Ms. Maria Rolle, on these shores, and at the hands of Mr. Cory Gulka, an expatriate,” said Arlington Musgrove, Minister of Immigration and Border Services.
Cory Gulka is described as the manager of Villa 6 Upper East Side Estates in Leeward; his rant caught on camera ignited a firestorm of commentary in the islands. Residents agreed that it was outrageous, dangerous and some sided with Maria Rolle, the decorator, that for certainGulka was “racist.”
The Minister said he plans to investigate.
“Racism and ill treatment of anyone, and especially Turks and Caicos Islanders, will not be tolerated and my team and I will also be taking the necessary steps in coming weeks, through amendments to the Immigration Ordinance, to ensure that the government, both current and future, has the legal frameworks to respond to such blatant disrespect and disregard for our people and our country,” said Minister Musgrove.
Cory Gulka, in the video, demanded that Maria Rolle leave his villa with her balloon décor, which had been ordered by his guest as part of a birthday surprise. For many it was a demeaning and intimidating exchange. Rolle admits to be scared and confused, alleging Gulka lied about the matter to the guest, who was disappointed when her balloons were not up upon arrival.
“The release and video issued by the brave young Rolle was disturbing and infuriating, to say the least, and it showed the actions of what I can only call a bully and of absolute hatred by Mr. Gulka. Let me be clear, to live and work amongst us in these Islands is indeed a privilege and one which should never be abused, nor should it be taken for granted,” explained the minister.
Residents called on Minister Musgrove to deport Gulka. Up to news publication time, we were not able to confirm if Gulka was still in country or if he had left voluntarily or by force. What is expected, however, is a probe.
“Therefore, my team will be looking into this matter more closely over the next few days.
I wish to take this opportunity to encourage Ms. Rolle and to thank her for speaking up and not letting characters such as Cory Gulka get away with such despicable behavior,” said Musgrove.
