The Brandon School Division in Manitoba is taking strong steps to make schools safer and more welcoming after a violent and racially motivated attack shook the community earlier this year. The division is starting new advisory committees in every school this fall to focus on safety, inclusion, and the well-being of students and families.
The attack, which involved a sword and was aimed at people of colour and immigrants, left a Grade 10 student seriously injured. Since then, schools, families, and community leaders are working together to make sure that such violence never happens again.
On June 2024, a frightening event occurred at Neelin High School in Brandon, Manitoba. Chinonso Onuke, a Grade 10 student, was attacked with a sword by another student. The attacker targeted students because of their race and background. Chinonso was badly hurt, with deep cuts on his hands, chest, and thigh. Seven of his fingers were almost cut off as he tried to fight off the attack.
The suspect, a 16-year-old student, was charged with attempted murder. Police Chief Tyler Bates explained that the attack was planned ahead of time and specifically aimed at people of colour and immigrant families.
In response to this event, the Brandon School Division decided to form new safe schools advisory committees in every school. These committees will help guide how schools stay safe, fair, and welcoming.
Superintendent Mathew Gustafson explained that safety planning and clear communication are very important. He said, “The attack has had a big effect on everyone. People may now see drills, like lockdown drills, in a different way. That’s why it’s important to plan and talk with families.”
The committees will be led by school principals and vice-principals and include teachers, parents, students, and members from police and fire services. Together, they will work on strategies, policies, and practices to keep students safe and promote respect among all.
The division is also improving its Hour Zero emergency response program. This program includes:
Safety audits in schools
Training sessions for parents and staff
Better communication tools to quickly share emergency information
The goal is to ensure that everyone in the community knows how to respond in emergencies and feels supported.
Parents from different schools in Brandon are sharing their thoughts about the new safety plans.
Zack McMillan, whose daughter is in Grade 1, said, “I have zero concerns. The communication has been super clear and frequent.”
Abdu Abrehe, whose son is in Grade 2, said, “Everything is good. I trust the school’s safety measures.”
Kerri Holden, also a parent of a Grade 2 student, said she’s happy with the school’s efforts. She shared how bike safety campaigns and better supervision make parents feel safer. She also likes that schools provide training on how to report concerns in a helpful way, especially regarding students’ mental health.
The Brandon School Division has always made anti-racism a priority. Superintendent Gustafson said, “Every student should feel safe and included.” It’s important that students trust adults at school and feel comfortable talking about their concerns.
Emmanuel Ahaneku, chair of the Umu Igbo Brandon Association, said the community has been shaken by the attack, but it’s coming together to support families. He said that messages about unity and saying no to racism are spreading in schools and the community.
Ahaneku also emphasized the importance of talking about inclusion and respect at home. He said parents play a key role in teaching their children how to be kind and accepting of others.
Even though some fear remains, many families feel optimistic. Ahaneku said, “The kids are excited to go back to school.” He added that it’s important to build trust and not let fear control the community.
The message is clear: everyone, including students, parents, and schools, must work together to fight racism and create a safe environment. By teaching children that Brandon is a welcoming place, families can help shape a positive future.
Build Trust: Schools should encourage students to speak up and trust adults around them.
Teach Respect: Families need to talk about inclusion and anti-racism at home.
Strengthen Safety Programs: Schools should continue training and updating emergency plans.
Encourage Community Support: Everyone in the city should work together to support students and families.
The sword attack at Neelin High School was a painful reminder of the dangers that hate and racism can bring. But it also brought the community together. Schools, families, and leaders are now working hard to make sure students feel safe and valued.
With new advisory committees and programs, Brandon is taking steps to rebuild trust and ensure that every student can learn and grow without fear. As the community moves forward, the message is strong: safety, inclusion, and respect must always come first.
The road ahead may be challenging, but together, Brandon is choosing hope, kindness, and courage over fear.
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