BY: Swraa Anand

December 6th marks the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada. This day commemorates the tragic loss of 14 young women who were brutally murdered at Polytechnique Montréal on December 6th, 1989. The Montreal Massacre sent shockwaves across Canada and the world, leading to widespread outrage, grief, and a renewed commitment to eliminating violence against women.

In 1991, the Canadian government established the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women to honor the victims' memories and raise awareness about the issue of violence against women.

This day serves as an opportunity to remember the lives lost and to reaffirm our commitment to fighting the hatred that led to this tragedy and the misogyny that still exists today. In Canada, women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals continue to face unacceptable violence and discrimination. Rates of gender-based violence, including intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, remain alarmingly high, and the ongoing struggle for safety and equality continues.

There are several ways to honor the victims of the Montreal Massacre:

Wearing a white ribbon to show support
Observing a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m.
Attending a vigil in the community
Spreading awareness on social media and sharing the National Day of Remembrance post

Achieving a Canada free from gender-based violence requires everyone's involvement. Educating oneself, as well as one's family and community, about gender-based violence, while centering the voices of survivors, are effective ways to make a difference. It is also essential to challenge harmful stereotypes and attitudes, support policies that promote gender equality, and actively engage in conversations about respect, consent, and healthy relationships. Additionally, it is important to support organizations that work on the front lines to provide services for survivors, raise awareness, and advocate for systemic change. By working together, we can create a safer and more inclusive society for all.