Sky’s Story:
An Assault Scenario
Scenario
Sky is a 16-year-old Indigenous youth who has been struggling with growing conflict with another student, Maya. What started as disagreements online turned into ongoing arguments in person, in messages and on social media. Over time, the tension between them became well-known at school, with peers spreading rumours that they would “settle it” with a fight after school.
On a Friday afternoon, Sky and Maya met at the park near the school. Dozens of students gathered after hearing about the planned fight through Snapchat and group chats. Many stood in a circle around them, filming as the two argued and pushed each other. The confrontation escalated when Sky punched Maya several times. Maya fell, and the crowd could be heard cheering. The videos were later shared widely online.
Maya suffered a bloody nose, bruising, and humiliation from having the videos circulate publicly. The incident left both youth shaken; Maya feeling exposed and hurt, and Sky feeling ashamed and overwhelmed by the consequences. Police were called after school staff saw the videos. Sky was arrested and charged with assault causing bodily harm.
While the case could go through the courts, instead, the community and families involved have agreed to participate in a Restorative Justice Circle to talk about what happened, the harm caused, and how to repair trust and safety in a good way.
Characters in the Circle
Sky (Youth who caused the harm) - 16 years old; admits to losing control but feels misunderstood and regrets what happened. Struggling with peer pressure, shame, and how quickly things escalated.
Maya the Victim (Youth who was harmed) - Physically hurt and emotionally impacted. Feels embarrassed that the videos spread online, and is unsure whether she can forgive or trust again.
Jordan Bystander (Peer Witness) - One of the students who was there and filmed part of the fight. Realizes now how harmful recording and sharing the video was and wants to make amends too.
Mr. King (School Principal) - Wants to rebuild safety and community trust at the school. Supports restorative processes instead of suspension or further legal punishment if accountability is shown.
M. Redsky (Teacher) – Knows both youth from school. Concerned about the emotional and mental health impacts of bullying, social media, and public humiliation.
Sky’s Mother (Caregiver) - Deeply worried about her daughter. Feels embarrassed and hurt by the situation, but wants to support her in taking responsibility and learning from it.
Program Facilitator or Volunteer (Restorative Justice Facilitator) Neutral circle keeper ensuring that all voices are heard respectfully, helping the group focus on healing and developing a collective plan to repair harm.
Auntie Cheryl (Elder/Knowledge Keeper - If Available) - Respected community member guiding the circle. Offers teachings about respect, emotional control, and accountability — reminding everyone that conflict handled in anger harms the whole circle.
“When we hurt someone, the whole circle feels it. Healing begins when we come together . . . to speak, to listen, and to make things right.”
— Anonymous Elder