The mother of a 14-year-old Ukrainian girl who was reportedly attacked by a group of teenagers at a Winnipeg school is calling for stronger measures to prevent bullying incidents. Winnipeg police announced the arrest of two individuals in connection with the assault at Oak Park High School. To protect the victims’ identities, no further details about the incident were disclosed by the authorities. However, a local resident confirmed to CBC News that her daughter was the target of the attack, which occurred last Thursday in a school restroom.
The woman described her daughter as visibly shaken and deeply affected by the incident, expressing her shock at witnessing her child in such distress. Allegedly, five teenage girls confronted her daughter, accusing her of making negative comments about them. The situation escalated as the girls mocked her daughter’s accent and appearance. According to the woman, one of the girls forcefully pushed her daughter’s head into the bathroom counter, causing her to fall to the floor where she was further assaulted.
The mother highlighted the significant impact on her daughter’s mental well-being, stating that fear now prevents her child from returning to school. She emphasized that bullying remains a persistent issue within the school environment. Citing safety concerns, the mother expressed reluctance to allow her daughter to interact with the group of girls involved in the incident, questioning the effectiveness of the school’s supervision.
Having fled Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 to seek safety in Canada, the mother shared her distress at the current situation, questioning the adequacy of her decision to move. The family’s traumatic experience has left them shaken and disheartened by the violence encountered in their new surroundings.
In response to queries regarding the incident, Oak Park High School and the Pembina Trails School division refrained from commenting due to the ongoing nature of the investigation. The school principal, Jennifer Bracken, acknowledged the reported incident in a letter to parents, reassuring them that student safety and well-being remain top priorities. The principal emphasized the school’s commitment to addressing the situation comprehensively, providing support to the affected student and ensuring all students receive necessary assistance.
Bracken underscored that the behavior exhibited in the incident does not align with the school’s standards and values. She emphasized the school’s inclusive environment, promoting acceptance, respect, and safety for every student within the diverse student body. The school is actively working towards resolving the matter and ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.