Ember’s Story:
A Harrassment Scenario
Scenario
Ember is a 16-year-old Indigenous youth who is usually friendly and well-liked at school. Recently, however, Ember began feeling excluded when a close friend, Lily, started spending time with other classmates. The change left Ember feeling hurt and left out.
One evening, Ember created a group chat with several classmates and started sending hurtful messages about Lily. Ember called Lily names, spread rumours about her hanging out with many boys, and told others not to talk to her. Over several days, the messages continued, both online and in person. Some students joined in, while others grew uncomfortable and told Ember to stop.
Lily became increasingly upset, anxious, and isolated. She eventually reported the bullying to a teacher, who shared the screenshots with the principal. After reviewing the messages, the school contacted the police. Ember has since been charged with criminal harassment, which includes repeated unwanted communication that causes someone to feel unsafe or distressed.
Although Ember admits to starting the messages, they say they never intended to cause serious harm, only to vent frustration after feeling abandoned by a friend. Lily, however, continues to feel humiliated and wary of returning to school.
The community has called a Restorative Justice Circle to bring together those affected, directly and indirectly, to talk about what happened, how it has impacted everyone, and what can be done to repair the harm and rebuild relationships.
Roles in the Courtroom
Ember (Youth who caused harm) - 16 years old. Feels remorseful and embarrassed, realizing the situation became much more serious than expected. Struggles to explain that the actions came from hurt, not hatred.
Lily (Youth who was harmed) - Deeply affected by the bullying. Feels anxious, isolated, and betrayed by someone she used to call a friend. Unsure how to trust again.
Principal Ahmed (School Administrator) - Concerned about the lasting impact on the wider student community. Open to an alternative resolution if Ember takes accountability and shows genuine understanding.
Ember’s Mother (Caregiver/Parent) - Shocked and saddened by her child’s actions. Wants Ember to take responsibility but also to learn and grow from the experience rather than be criminalized.
M. Redsky (Teacher) - Works with both students and has seen how social media can amplify harm. Wants to support emotional healing and ensure safety in the school environment.
Zoe (Peer Witness) - Was part of the group chat but eventually told Ember to stop. Feels guilty for not intervening sooner and wants to help make things right.
Program Facilitator or Volunteer (Restorative Justice Facilitator) - Neutral circle keeper. Ensures that all voices are heard and that the conversation stays focused on healing, empathy, and meaningful reparation.
Auntie Jean (Elder/Knowledge Keeper - If Available) - Guides the circle with teachings about the power of words, respect, and how gossip can harm the spirit. Helps re-centre the discussion around community healing and relational accountability.
“Our words carry spirit. They can lift someone up or break someone down. When we speak carelessly, we create harm … but when we speak with kindness, we create healing.”
— Anonymous Elder