An urgent call against bullying in schools

The recent and heartbreaking news about the death of Jocelynn Rojo Carranza, an eleven-year-old girl who may have made the fatal decision to end her life, according to news reports due to students at a school in Gainesville, Texas, who threatened to report her to U.S. immigration authorities so that she and her family could be deported. “The tragedy has shocked public opinion and has brought to light a painful reality: bullying remains a serious and, in many cases, lethal problem. According to the information available, the minor would have been the victim of verbal abuse by her classmates due to her family's immigration status in the United States. This tragic event not only invites us to reflect on the cruelty of child bullying, but also on the collective responsibility in protecting the most vulnerable.

Bullying has been a constant problem in educational environments, but today it has been aggravated by exposure to social media and the lack of effective prevention measures. It is unacceptable that in an environment where children should feel safe, they become the target of constant aggression that affects their emotional and mental health. Discrimination, whether for reasons of origin, immigration status, race or any other factor, not only hurts, but leaves irreparable scars on those who suffer from it.

This particular case also puts the role of educational institutions and authorities in the protection of minors at the centre of the debate. It is essential that schools implement zero tolerance policies towards bullying and that a culture of inclusion and respect is promoted from the earliest years of education. However, this task is not exclusive to schools; parents must also assume the responsibility of educating their children in values ​​of respect, empathy and solidarity.

The community as a whole also has a key role in eradicating bullying. Indifference and lack of action in the face of this problem can have devastating consequences, as demonstrated by the death of Jocelyn. It is imperative that effective prevention strategies are implemented, such as training teachers and students in the detection of bullying, creating safe spaces for reporting and promoting inclusion in all educational settings.

On the other hand, child suicide is a reality that is often ignored or minimized. It is necessary to talk openly about the mental health of children and adolescents, and to guarantee access to psychological support in schools. The emotional pressure that many minors face can be overwhelming, and in many cases, they do not have the resources or the necessary support to face their problems.

Jocelynn’s story should not be just a passing headline; it should become an urgent call to action. No one deserves to be mistreated because of their origin or the legal status of their family. As a society, we must ensure that no other child goes through the same suffering. It is time to act, to educate and to protect those who are still learning to live and send a message to those in governmental power to create a safe environment for students. The same authorities should find ways to make sure kids are not expose to information that will trigger mix responds and as in this case tragical outcomes that affect innocent lives. 

#stopbullying #nomorebullying #usaimigration #imigrants #worldpeace #internationalpeace