Montreal, Canada — The mother of a 14-year-old girl who was violently attacked outside her high school in the NDG neighborhood earlier this month is speaking out about the incident, calling for an end to gender-based violence. The assault occurred after the girl repeatedly rejected advances from a 17-year-old boy, who then allegedly stabbed her in the face and struck her multiple times.
“I am here today to raise our voices against gender-based violence. We cannot remain silent or indifferent,” said the mother, who requested to be identified only as Ping. At a press event supported by the Center for Research-Action on Race Relations (CRARR), she conveyed the impact of the event not just on her daughter but also on their family.
According to CRARR, the girl was surprised to see the assailant, who had previously transferred to another school. As she approached École secondaire Saint-Luc, the boy reportedly lunged at her without warning, causing a severe cut to her face while she protected herself with her backpack. She shouted “I’m sorry” amid the chaos, a plea that reflects the terrifying nature of the attack.
Fortunately, a school employee heard her cries for help and opened the doors to allow her inside, as the assailant fled the scene. The attack, which took place on October 7, left the girl with significant injuries, including deep cuts around her eye, although she was fortunate not to lose its function.
Police apprehended the suspect soon after the incident at a nearby school. He has been charged with attempted murder and possession of a weapon, and he remains in custody for a psychiatric evaluation. Due to his age, authorities have withheld his identity. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 3.
Since the attack, Ping has been unable to return to work as she focuses on supporting her daughter’s recovery. The stab wound necessitated medical treatment, allowing her to return home shortly after, but she has not resumed school due to both physical and psychological trauma.
Local leaders and women’s advocates expressed outrage over the incident at the press event, highlighting the need for improved protections for young women. The attack has resonated deeply within both the local community and the Filipino population, prompting calls for renewed efforts to combat gender-based violence.
In response to the family’s immediate needs, CRARR plans to assist them in navigating crime victim compensation benefits while addressing their psychological and educational challenges through social services. The organization’s executive director emphasized the urgency of enhancing support for victims of gender-based violence and urged greater governmental action to ensure public safety.
As part of an ongoing community initiative, CRARR has launched a fundraising campaign to alleviate the family’s financial burdens resulting from the attack. Members of the community are encouraged to contribute to this fund to assist with the family’s recovery efforts.
The event has underscored the pressing need for society to create safer environments for girls and women everywhere. Ping concluded her remarks by urging collective action: “We must create safer spaces for our daughters, not just at school, but in our communities.”