The mother of a 14-year-old Ukrainian girl who was reportedly assaulted by a group of teenagers at a Winnipeg school is calling for stronger measures to combat bullying. Winnipeg police have confirmed the arrest of two individuals in connection with the incident at Oak Park High School, withholding further details to safeguard the victims’ identities. However, a local resident revealed to CBC News that her daughter was the target of the assault, which occurred last Thursday within a school restroom.
Describing her daughter as visibly shaken and in a state of shock, the woman expressed deep concern over the incident. She recounted how her daughter was confronted by five teenage girls who mocked her accent and appearance before physically attacking her. The mother claimed that the assault left her daughter traumatized, fearful of returning to school, and highlighted a pervasive bullying problem at the institution.
Expressing apprehension about her daughter’s safety, the mother emphasized the need for decisive action by school authorities. She shared her intention to keep her daughter away from school until a resolution is reached by the principal and school officials. The family, who fled Ukraine due to the Russian invasion in 2022, now faces uncertainty about their safety in Canada following the distressing incident.
While Oak Park High School and the Pembina Trails School division refrained from commenting on the ongoing investigation, a letter from principal Jennifer Bracken assured parents of the school’s commitment to addressing the situation. Bracken emphasized the school’s dedication to student safety and well-being, indicating that appropriate support had been extended to the affected student and the wider student body.
The principal’s letter, obtained by CBC News, underscored the school’s stance against the unacceptable behavior exhibited in the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect among students.
