National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women – December 6, 2023
On the afternoon of December 6, 1989, 14 women were murdered at École Polytechnique, an engineering school affiliated with the Université de Montréal. These victims were targeted and killed for one reason: their gender.
In 1991, the Parliament of Canada established the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women to ensure the events of December 6 are never forgotten.
Today, Canadians band together to remember this misogynistic act of hatred that shook the nation 34 years ago. HWDSB joins Government of Ontario buildings and establishments across the province by flying flags at half-mast from sunrise to sunset at all schools and buildings.
As we mourn their loss and remember their lives, we reaffirm our commitment to fight the hatred that led to this tragedy. In Canada and around the world, women, girls and Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ individuals face unacceptable violence and discrimination. The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is about remembering those who have experienced gender-based violence and serves as a reminder to take action.
It is important for everyone to educate themselves, their families and communities on gender-based violence, listen to the stories of survivors and speak up against harmful behaviours. We will not forget the 14 victims in Montreal.
Geneviève Bergeron, civil engineering student
Hélène Colgan, mechanical engineering student
Nathalie Croteau, mechanical engineering student
Barbara Daigneault, mechanical engineering student
Anne-Marie Edward, chemical engineering student
Maud Haviernick, materials engineering student
Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz, nursing student
Maryse Laganière, budget clerk
Maryse Leclair, materials engineering student
Anne-Marie Lemay, mechanical engineering student
Sonia Pelletier, mechanical engineering student
Michèle Richard, materials engineering student
Annie St-Arneault, mechanical engineering student
Annie Turcotte, materials engineering student
Sincerely,
Paul Denomme
Superintendent of Student Achievement, Equity, Mental Health and Well-Being
Resources
- Sexual Assault Centre of Hamilton and Area (SACHA)
- YWCA Hamilton – Emergency Resources
- Women Abuse Working Group – Community Resources
Updated on Wednesday, December 06, 2023.