What should you do if you are being harasssed

Remember that racial harassment is not rare and you are not alone.

Here are some things to think about if you are being harassed.

Don’t blame yourself - Racial harassment is wrong, and should not be tolerated in any school.

Keep a journal (but not as part of your diary) – When you write in your journal, note the date and time of the incidents, anything you do or say that indicates to the person harassing you that you want that person to stop, any friends you tell and what you say to them, any report that you make and their responses or failures to respond.

Tell a close friend – Not to gossip, but to get moral support

Tell your parents - It is important not to leave your parents in the dark if you a victim of harassment. Talk to them and examine the options you have to deal with the problem

Tell an adult at school – if that person does not do something to help you, tell someone else.

Keep a record of all such conversations in your journal. Request that your complaint be kept as confidential as possible.

Get a copy of your school’s racial harassment policy – If you report a incident through your school’s racial harassment policy, then the school is required to handle the policy formally, and take a formal statement from you.

You should ask what process the school will follow to resolve your complaint.

Appeal – If you feel your complaint is not taken seriously or if you think not enough was done, go to a person in higher authority.

Keep documenting the harassing behaviour and any steps you take.

Seek counselling – If you are scared, or angry or confused ask for counselling an support, either in the school, or from community groups outside the school