A Belize Police Corporal has become the first known male officer to publicly wear dreadlocks as an expression of his Rastafarian faith. It's a move he describes as both personal and principled, even as he expects it could spark resistance from higher-up's.
Corporal Kenrick Bol says that he finds the police grooming rules which he now sees as rooted in outdated and colonialistic.
Bol says he formally committed to the Rastafarian faith more than seven months ago and has been growing his hair since then. He began wearing his dreadlocks openly about a week ago.
He acknowledges that the decision is likely to put him at odds with the senior command, and even with some colleagues.
Bold told us via text message, "I do expect a clash with higher-ups…Even some at the lower ranks are looking at me like I am doing something wrong. That is exactly why I believe it is time for change."
Bol argues that the issue goes beyond personal appearance and speaks to broader questions of equality, diversity, and religious freedom within state institutions.
Bol's decision is grounded in the landmark 2021 Supreme Court ruling that affirmed the right of police officers - specifically women at the time - to wear dreadlocks as a protected expression of religious belief.
The Belize Police Department has not yet publicly commented on Bol's decision. However, the move is likely to draw attention as another potential test of how far constitutional protections extend within uniformed services.
Bol has a high profile right now, because he is part of a slate offering itself for the Police Association Executive Board - the election for which is going to be held tomorrow and the race is between 3 slates.
And what about marijuana which is not illegal to possess but it is illegal to buy? Well, that is considered a sacrament in Rastafarianism. He said he has not used it because he hasn't participated in any rituals that require it…and so far has not felt the need to partake.
