Oliver RCMP leader calls angry protest incident at high school Friday 'disconcerting,' says the matter is under investigation

Oliver's RCMP detachment commander called the behaviour of protesters at Southern Okanagan Secondary School Friday "disconcerting," and said criminal charges could potentially be pursued if warranted.

Sgt. Don Wrigglesworth responded via email Monday, explaining a constable attended SOSS Friday because there were some "'freedom' people supporting students that were planning a walkout protest against mandates."

He said they were told to stay off school grounds, and things appeared calm. The constable left, and Wrigglesworth believes the disturbing incident caught on video of a woman angrily berating high school children, screaming profanities and slurs, must have happened later.

Oliver RCMP received no calls from the school administration, teachers or students and only became aware of the situation Saturday.

"Bottom line is that there are adults in our community with their own agenda and on the surface it is very unsettling and appears to have crossed a number of lines," Wrigglesworth said.

"It is disconcerting that these adults would somehow think that their actions and viewpoints should be pressed upon children, or even expressed at all."

He said if criminal charges are deemed warranted, they will pursue that avenue.

"The safety of children at school is very important and a place of learning appears to have been violated. This matter remains under investigation. We will continue to liaise with the school administration, Oliver Mayor and Council, and leaders of our Indo-Canadian and First Nations Community."

School District 53 Board of Education chair Rob Zandee sent a public statement to media Monday condemning the protesters for attending the school. Protesters also assembled at Osoyoos Secondary School on the same day.

"Schools are inclusive places and children should not be subject to verbal abuse or altercations," Zandee said.

"While everyone has the right to protest, interfering with students trying to leave for their weekend is unacceptable. The Access to Services (COVID-19) Act was passed in November 2021 to protect those who provide services and to prevent disruptive behaviour from affecting schools. We would appreciate any future protests avoid our schools."

Officials at both schools will be speaking to students about what to do if they feel unsafe, and will also be asking the kids not to engage with protesters in the future. Zandee calls student safety in their learning environment "a key priority" for the board.