Suicide of Dawn-Marie Wesley

Suicide of Dawn-Marie Wesley occurred on November 10, 2000, in Mission, British Columbia, Canada. Wesley was a 14-year-old student who took her own life by hanging. Her suicide was a direct result of bullying and harassment she experienced from her peers at school. This tragic event brought significant attention to the issues of bullying and suicide prevention in schools, leading to changes in policy and the implementation of anti-bullying laws in Canada.

Background

Dawn-Marie Wesley was a student at a secondary school in Mission, British Columbia. In the months leading up to her death, Wesley reported being subjected to intense bullying by a group of girls at her school. The harassment included verbal threats, physical intimidation, and social exclusion. Despite her efforts to seek help, the bullying persisted.

Suicide and Aftermath

On November 10, 2000, Wesley was found deceased in her home. She left behind a note that directly implicated three girls in her decision to end her life, stating, "If I try to get help, it will get worse. They are always looking for a new person to hurt." This note played a crucial role in the investigation that followed her death.

The aftermath of Wesley's suicide sparked a nationwide conversation about the severity of bullying and the need for schools to take more proactive measures to prevent it. Her case led to the implementation of stricter anti-bullying policies in schools across Canada and raised awareness about the mental health impacts of bullying on young people.

Legal Implications

The three girls mentioned in Wesley's note were later charged with criminal harassment. This case was one of the first in Canada to connect bullying with criminal responsibility. Although the charges were eventually dropped, the legal proceedings highlighted the need for legal frameworks to address bullying behavior.

Impact on Anti-Bullying Legislation

The suicide of Dawn-Marie Wesley had a profound impact on anti-bullying legislation in Canada. It contributed to the development and enactment of Bill 14, the Anti-Bullying Act, in British Columbia, which aimed to provide students with a safer learning environment. This legislation requires schools to have formal anti-bullying policies in place and to take immediate action in cases of bullying.

Legacy

Dawn-Marie Wesley's story has been a catalyst for change in the way bullying is addressed in schools and communities. Her legacy includes increased awareness and advocacy for anti-bullying initiatives, mental health support for victims of bullying, and the implementation of legal measures to protect students from harassment.

See Also

• Bullying
• Suicide prevention
• Mental health in adolescence
• Anti-bullying legislation