Taking a Stand Against Gender-Based Violence

December 6th marks the observance of the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This occasion unites communities throughout Canada to commemorate the tragic event of December 6, 1989. On this day, we remember the 14 women who lost their lives, and the other 14 injured, in a violent act of misogyny and hatred at the engineering school of Montreal's École Polytechnique.

The horrific events of the Montreal Massacre forced Canada to address the issue of gender-based violence. In the perpetrator’s suicide note, he attributed the downhill spiral of his life to feminists and outlined a list of 19 notable Quebec feminists to be targeted, showing that this event stemmed from a larger social issue—violence against women.

December 6 is part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global initiative aiming to put an end to gender-based violence. The campaign starts on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and continues until December 10.

As a school community, we must take a stand against all forms of gender-based violence. This occasion not only serves as a reminder but as a call to action that prompts us all to reflect and continue to push for change and improvements. This issue shouldn’t be a polarizing one, but an opportunity for us all to move forward together and join the collective fight against gender-based violence.

Bearing all this in mind, make sure to wear your white and don your white ribbons on Wednesday, December 6th to show your support and support the cause.

How to show your support:

-> Wear a white ribbon. You can make one or get one from SAC from your first-period teacher!

-> Check out local vigils and other commemorative programming in your community

-> Take some time to educate yourself on the causes and impacts of gender-based violence

-> Learn more about the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV campaign and how to get involved

-> Check out the White Ribbon Campaign website for more information

-> Spread the word and encourage your friends and family to take part in the movement

-> If you ever feel like you need any support, there is help available!

-> Government of Canada Support Resources

“Gender equality is critical to the development and peace of every nation.” - Qingrong Ma