In a shocking incident of violence and intolerance, a 14-year-old Jewish Israeli student was viciously assaulted by another student at Leo Hayes High School in Fredericton, New Brunswick.
The incident, which occurred on April 30 during lunchtime off school premises, has sparked outrage and calls for action against antisemitism in Canada.
According to reports from B’nai Brith Canada, the victim, identified as Shaked Tsurkan, was attacked from behind by what appeared to be a Muslim student.
Disturbing footage of the assault circulated online, showing Tsurkan being thrown to the ground as her assailant climbed on top of her, grabbed her hair, and repeatedly punched her in the face. Despite Tsurkan’s attempts to defend herself, the assault continued unabated.
Even more disturbingly, bystanders were seen watching and filming the attack on their phones, with one older man intervening only after a few moments to accuse Tsurkan of instigating the fight.
The victim, traumatized and injured by the assault, was left deeply shaken by the experience.
Richard Robertson, the Director of Research and Advocacy at B’nai Brith Canada, condemned the attack as a stark example of the pervasive culture of antisemitism facing the Jewish community in Canada.
Robertson emphasized the urgent need for leaders to address and confront this “scourge of hate” before more lives are affected.
In response to the incident, B’nai Brith Canada immediately reached out to Tsurkan’s family, offering support and assistance in reporting the assault to the authorities.
They stressed the importance of reporting acts of violence and hate to organizations like theirs to ensure that perpetrators face consequences for their actions.
Leo Hayes High School has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident, despite requests for comment. The lack of response from the school administration has only added to the frustration and concern surrounding the attack.
As the investigation into this disturbing incident continues, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of antisemitism and the urgent need for action to combat it. In a country that prides itself on diversity and inclusion, acts of hatred and violence have no place in our schools or communities.
It is imperative that all Canadians stand together against antisemitism and all forms of discrimination, ensuring that every individual can feel safe and respected in their place of learning and in society as a whole.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our staff editorial members