An 11-year-old North Carolina girl shared with her parents that she was afraid to return to school after being bullied. Racist bullies told Dalaya Hooper she looked like “she stayed in the oven too long” due to her skin tone.
Her mother, Dawnetta, expressed that the racist remarks made by the bullies in Dalaya’s class made her want to switch schools.
The 11-year-old said fellow students allegedly bullied her, making remarks that she was from “Africa, stayed in the oven for too long, and the color of burnt.”
Using Facebook as a liaison to spread awareness, Dawnetta posted on Facebook about the racism and bullying at Riverwood Middle School featuring screenshots of a text thread between her and Dalaya.
“I was at work today when I received this text message from my 11-year-old child. My heart sank! I immediately told my coworkers I had to go. Months ago, I brought this to the administrator’s attention and they said “we will handle it”. Well, you didn’t! So I had to go by the school IN PERSON! One thing that won’t happen is my child growing up hating any part of her. She is a beautiful, smart, and vibrant little girl. I won’t allow anyone to dim her light.”
Dalaya’s story on Facebook has received over 8,600 shares and comments in support of the situation.
“One thing that won’t happen is my child growing up hating any part of her. She is a beautiful, smart, and vibrant little girl. I won’t allow anyone to dim her light,” Dawnetta said.
Johnston County Public Schools said in a statement to WRAL that the serious allegations are being looked into but Dawnetta attests to their claims of an investigation.
“We are aware of the social media post and actively looking into the situation. While the district is not authorized to share confidential student information, allegations like these are taken seriously and handled according to Board policy,” it reads.
Dawnetta alleges that the school has not fixed the problem but, instead suggested that Dalaya be allowed to leave class early or register for different classes. Of course, any parent would be confused by this response, Hooper has to ask, “Why should my child have to change when she’s the victim?”
Local Pittsboro town leaders have asked Dalaya to light the town’s holiday tree since hearing of the matter.
