Dear Educators, Administrators, and School Communities,
I’m writing as both a mother and someone who has personally experienced the pain of bullying. Yasmien Kurdi recently shared the heartbreaking experience of her daughter, Ayesha, being bullied at your school. Her story resonates deeply with me. Growing up, I was bullied not physically, but emotionally and verbally. I was made to feel ugly, stupid, and unworthy, and these wounds stayed with me into adulthood.
In light of Colegio San Agustin (CSA) ‘s recent response to Yasmien’s claims about bullying, I feel compelled to speak out. The emotional and verbal abuse Ayesha faced—including being targeted by her peers and subjected to an online hate group—is just as damaging as physical bullying, and it’s vital that schools take this seriously. Bullying isn’t just about what we see—it’s also about what we don’t see: the emotional scars.
Colegio San Agustin states ‘no bullying’ of Yasmien Kurdi’s daughter
Schools Must Be More Aware and Involved
It’s alarming that Ayesha’s experience wasn’t adequately addressed by your school. The emotional toll of bullying—whether verbal, emotional, or physical—can last a lifetime, and it’s crucial that schools are equipped to recognize and act on all forms of bullying. Teachers and staff need to be proactive, creating a culture where children feel safe to speak up, and where bullying is swiftly addressed.
Schools Need to Be More Empathetic
As a parent, I want to know that my child’s well-being is a priority. Schools must create an environment where students feel heard and supported, not just punished. Empathy and understanding must be the foundation of your anti-bullying policy, ensuring that all students—whether victims or perpetrators—are treated with respect and given the tools to grow.
A Call to Action for Schools
I urge schools to take meaningful action in response to bullying, not only for high-profile cases like Ayesha’s but for all students. There are a few steps that can make a real difference:
- Comprehensive anti-bullying education: Teach students that bullying is more than physical—it includes emotional and verbal abuse too.
- Safe reporting systems: Create an environment where children feel safe reporting bullying, knowing their concerns will be taken seriously.
- Swift and consistent action: Address bullying immediately and offer support to the victim while holding perpetrators accountable.
- Empathy-driven policies: Foster kindness and respect among students, and support emotional well-being with counseling and resources.
No Child Should Suffer in Silence
As a mother, I need to know my children will be protected from bullying in all its forms. CSA has a chance to be a leader in creating a safe, inclusive environment where every child can thrive. This starts with taking all forms of bullying seriously—physical, verbal, and emotional—and fostering a culture of empathy, respect, and support.
Sincerely,
[A Concerned Parent Who Was Once Bullied as a Child]