This Family Thought They Were Moving To A Better Place—Then Racism Hit Their Daughter And Now They're Heartbroken

A family moved to Australia full of hope, dreaming of a safer, healthier future where their children could grow up happy and respected. They imagined a place where laughter and learning would be the norm, not fear or judgment.

But that hope shattered in a single afternoon. Their nine-year-old niece, usually full of energy and joy, came home from school completely silent.

She didn’t laugh, she didn’t talk, and she didn’t eat. This was a child who spontaneously hugged people, played with friends, and lit up any room—now looking like someone had switched off her light.

After sitting with her gently, the family discovered the reason for her silence. A classmate had called her “curry,” not in a curious or innocent way, but with the mocking, cruel tone meant to make her feel different and less.

It was her heritage that made her a target. She’s Indian, and apparently, that was enough for another child to try to diminish her identity.

The family knew some might dismiss it, saying, “It’s just a word” or “Kids will be kids.” But it’s never just a word when it causes a child to shut down completely, questioning her worth and identity.

Racism, no matter how small it seems, leaves a mark. For this nine-year-old, the mark was deep and painful, shaking the sense of safety her family had hoped to find in Australia.

They had moved across the world for better opportunities, leaving behind their country, culture, and comfort zone. Now they were wondering if that sacrifice had been worth it.

The family watched in heartbreak as their niece grappled with feelings she should never have to feel at her age. She should be dreaming, laughing, learning, and growing—not skipping meals because someone made her feel small.

The parents promised they would speak with the school and support their niece every step of the way. They wanted her to know that her identity was something to be proud of, not ashamed of.

Yet, despite their determination, the emotional toll was heavy. They were tired, heartbroken, and questioning whether this “better environment” was truly better for their children.

Their story is not perfect English—they relied on ChatGPT to help articulate their feelings. But the emotions, the pain, and the experience behind the words are entirely real.

This was not just about grammar or writing; it was about expressing something that hurt deeply. They wanted the world to understand the weight of what happened to their family, especially to their little niece.

It’s a reminder that racism can appear anywhere, even in places promised to be safe. And even in the smallest moments, words can wound deeply, shaping how children feel about who they are.

Their hope is that sharing this story sparks awareness and empathy. They want other families, educators, and communities to understand the profound effect that bullying and racial targeting can have on a child’s life.

A classmate had called her “curry,” with the mocking, cruel tone meant to make her feel different and less.

AI-generated image

Here's the original post by Reddit user 'Shaggy8727'.

We moved to Australia with hope in our hearts for a better future, a healthier environment, and a place where our kids could grow up safe, respected, and happy.Today, that hope cracked.My niece, 9 years old, full of life and joy, came home from school completely silent. She wasn’t talking. She didn’t eat. This is a child who laughs, plays, hugs you out of nowhere—suddenly looking like the light in her had been switched off.After gently sitting with her, we found out a classmate called her “curry”—not in a friendly or curious way, but in that ugly, mocking tone meant to single her out. To make her feel other. Less. She’s Indian. And apparently, that was enough to be targeted.I know some people might say “it’s just a word,” or “kids will be kids.” But it’s never just a word when a child shuts down like this. It’s racism. It’s bullying. And it hurts—deeply.We came here for better. For our kids. And now we’re sitting here questioning whether we made the worst decision of our lives. We left behind our own country, our culture, our comfort zone—for this? To watch our children feel ashamed of their identity?She’s 9. She’s not supposed to be questioning whether being Indian is a bad thing. She’s not supposed to skip dinner because someone made her feel small. She’s supposed to be dreaming, learning, laughing—not wondering what’s wrong with who she is.We will speak to the school. We will stand by her. But right now, we’re heartbroken. And we’re tired. If this is the “better environment” we sacrificed so much for… maybe it’s not worth it.We don’t speak perfect English, so we used ChatGPT to help correct our grammar and write the post clearly. But the story, emotions, and experience are 100% real. We shared this because it hurt our family deeply, especially our niece, and we didn’t know where else to express it. Please try to understand the reason behind the post, not just how it’s written.

Understanding Racial Trauma

Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum, an expert on racial identity development, emphasizes that children of color often face unique challenges in predominantly white environments. Her extensive work highlights how racial microaggressions can significantly affect a child’s self-esteem and mental health.

Dr. Tatum explains that these experiences can lead to feelings of isolation and confusion, especially when they occur in places meant for learning and growth. Parents and educators must recognize these signs early to provide the necessary support.

Here's how the Reddit community reacted.

Reddit u/Temporary_Price_9908

"It's horrifying."

Reddit u/FM_Mono

Dr. Claude Steele, a renowned psychologist known for his work on stereotype threat, notes that children often internalize negative stereotypes, impacting their academic performance and emotional well-being. His research suggests creating an inclusive environment can significantly mitigate these effects.

He recommends proactive measures such as fostering open dialogues about race and diversity in classrooms to empower children and validate their experiences. Providing resources and support for both students and parents can create a more accepting atmosphere for all.

"Australia is rife with casual racism."

Reddit u/msdemeanour

"It's heartbreaking."

Reddit u/Ozdreamer

"It may be necessary to have a discussion with your niece about racism."

Reddit u/Effective_Pie1312

The Role of Schools

Educational expert Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond argues that schools play a crucial role in shaping children's experiences with race and identity. She advocates for comprehensive training for teachers on cultural competence and anti-racist pedagogy.

By implementing curricula that reflect diverse perspectives and histories, schools can promote inclusivity and understanding. Dr. Darling-Hammond highlights that engaging families in these discussions can help foster a supportive community that values every child's identity.

"Talk to the school."

Reddit u/RubyChooseday

"They can't handle the spice."

Reddit u/ClamatoDiver

"Speak to the school and the parents."

Reddit u/flowersfromflames

Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, a leading historian and scholar of race, emphasizes the importance of anti-racist education. He argues that schools must not only acknowledge racial issues but actively work against them.

His approach includes integrating anti-racist practices into school policies and curricula. Kendi suggests that this proactive stance can empower students of color to thrive academically and socially, transforming schools into safe spaces for all children.

Reassure her it isn't her fault.

Reddit u/WontTellYouHisName

It's inescapable.

Reddit u/No-Purpose-None

"It does get better."

Reddit u/snowburd14

Fostering Resilience

According to Dr. Angela Duckworth, a psychologist known for her research on grit and resilience, fostering emotional strength in children is vital. Her work emphasizes the importance of encouraging perseverance through challenges, including experiences of racism.

Dr. Duckworth recommends that parents engage in discussions about resilience, helping children develop coping strategies. Activities like journaling or mindfulness can also enhance emotional regulation, equipping children to handle difficult situations more effectively.

"Racism is rampant in the entire world."

Reddit u/deleted

"Kids are stupid and mean."

Reddit u/landomakesatable

Sending her love and strength.

Reddit u/slope11215

Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, a pediatrician specializing in adolescent medicine, emphasizes that creating a supportive family environment is crucial for children's development. He advocates for open communication, allowing children to express their feelings about their experiences.

He suggests that families engage in regular discussions about race and identity, which can help children process their emotions and feel validated. By fostering a strong support system, families can help children navigate the complexities of their experiences more effectively.

They're learning it from somewhere.

Reddit u/coaxialology

For now, the family holds their niece close, reassuring her that her culture, her heritage, and her identity are beautiful. And they continue to fight, both for her happiness and for the promise of a future where no child has to question if being themselves is enough.

Expert Opinion

This situation highlights how deeply ingrained societal biases can impact a child’s self-esteem and identity. Kids are incredibly perceptive, and negative experiences, especially those linked to their cultural background, can lead to internalized shame and confusion about who they are. It’s crucial for families and educators to foster environments of acceptance and pride in diversity to combat these harmful narratives and support healthy emotional development.

Analysis & Recommendations

The heart-wrenching experiences faced by children in new environments highlight the urgent need for systemic change in schools and communities. Experts like Dr. Tatum and Dr. Kendi emphasize that addressing racial trauma through education and support can significantly impact children's well-being.

By fostering open dialogues, providing resources, and creating inclusive spaces, we can help children navigate their identities more confidently. As Dr. Duckworth and Dr. Ginsburg suggest, resilience and emotional support from families and educators are crucial in shaping a brighter future for all children.