Image Credit: FILE PHOTO
June 13, 2023 - 3:47 PM
Kelowna RCMP have confirmed an investigation has been launched into the anti-transgender verbal attack on two grade 4 girls at a Central Okanagan school district event last week.
Police say they got a number of messages from concerned citizens about the incident Thursday, June 8, at the elementary school track and field day being held at the Apple Bowl in Kelowna.
A man accused a nine-year-old girl of either being a boy or transgender at a shot put competition for Grade 4 girls. She is neither and after some effort the man was removed and banned from School District 23 property and events. A woman with the man accused the girl’s mother of genital mutilation, grooming and being a pedophile.
"In response to this incident, we can confirm that the Kelowna RCMP have received a report and created an investigative file, but, due to the Privacy Act, we cannot share further details regarding the incident or the investigation at this time," reads a statement issued today, June 13 by Kelowna RCMP.
RCMP do not say if the case is being investigated as a hate crime but encouraged the public to show their ally ship by committing to diversity and inclusion.
“It is important to our community to speak out against discriminatory behaviours," RCMP said.
READ MORE: Two Grade 4 girls accused of being boys or trans at Kelowna track and field event
“Research shows that social support is an important protective factor for those experiencing marginalization, racism, or discrimination. If our community takes action together, this will assist us in the ultimate goal of a diverse, inclusive and safe community for all.”
Since this may be a difficult subject for some people to deal with, RCMP suggest people contact Kelowna Community Resources since it offers a number of relevant services and programs.
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