Thirty-four years ago on December 6th, 1989, 14 young women at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal were murdered because of their gender. They were:
Annually on December 6th, we honour these women by recognizing the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Flags were lowered to half-mast in recognition of these fourteen women senselessly murdered, and for others like them tragically killed by gender-based violence.
The Day is a call to action to learn more about gender-based violence, and to speak up against harmful behaviours. It also falls within the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which uses the social media hashtag #16Days, to help normalize the conversation and allows individuals an opportunity to share how they are being a part of the solution.
For more resources to learn about the day of remembrance and the days of activism, visit our Recognizing Diversity webpage at: www.kincardine.ca/Recognizing-Diversity.
If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation, contact the Women’s House serving Bruce and Grey for confidential support. Their 24-hour local support line number is 519-396-9655 or call 1-800-265-3026 toll free from the 519-area code. You can also visit their website at www.whsbg.on.ca for more information and to explore opportunities where you can act as a volunteer or sponsor.
Together, we can make a difference.