Ask Sam letter

Asker

To Sam

Racism

I was walking in town and this boy looked at me and called me a "p*ki", I didn't do anything but I'm thinking about finding him and giving him a lesson because he won't stop... I don't want to tell the police because everyone will bully me for being a tell tale. I definitely want to to teach him a lesson, I just want to find out what would happen if I punched him? Would I get a criminal reckord?
Ask Sam

Sam

Hi there,

It’s never okay for anyone to make racist remarks or statements to you. Racism can come in lots of different forms. Being treated unfairly or differently because of your race is wrong and it's against the law. It’s never okay for people to abuse you or try and make you feel bad about your race.

I believe that physical violence is wrong and there are always alternatives. Our page on being assertive has lots of good advice on this. You can be arrested for physically assaulting another person. It can also put you in danger, as the other person might hit you back.

It can be scary talking to someone about what’s happening, but it might be helpful for you to think about talking to a trusted adult. They can help you to think about what you want to do next. If you can keep a diary of what’s been happening, that might help when it comes to showing someone the details of what’s happened.

No matter what is happening, our counsellors are here to support you. You can speak to a ChildLine counsellor by phoning on 0800 1111, logging on for a 1-2-1 chat or by sending an email.

Take care,
Sam

Need help straight away?

You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.

Ask me a question

You can ask me about anything you want, there's nothing too big or small. I read every single letter but I can only answer a few each week. My replies are published here on my page.

Write me a letter