The following message contains content related to gender-based violence that may trigger powerful emotions to arise, especially for those with lived experience of violence and victimization. It is recommended you read the message when you feel safe and supported. Resources are available for those affected by gender-based violence, including REES (Respect Educate Empower Survivors), a community for survivors, a 24-7 Crisis Line, Gender-Based Violence Support in Manitoba and additional support services.   

Every year on  December 6, RRC Polytech recognizes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This day serves as a solemn reminder to honour the 14 women who were murdered and those injured at École Polytechnique in Montréal in 1989. 

We remember: 
Geneviève Bergeron, Hélène Colgan, Nathalie Croteau, Barbara Daigneault, Anne-Marie Edward, Maud Haviernick, Maryse Laganière, Maryse Leclair, Anne-Marie Lemay, Sonia Pelletier, Michèle Richard, Annie St-Arneault, Annie Turcotte, and Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz. 

These bright, talented women were daughters, sisters, friends, and colleagues. Young women whose lives and futures were stolen from them, just because they were women. Many of them were close to graduating or getting ready to step into their careers. Thirty-six years later, this loss is still felt, and it reminds us why action remains extremely urgent. 

Gender-based violence continues to hurt women, girls, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community across Canada and around the world. One in three women (an estimated 840 million) will experience violence in their lifetime. These numbers are heartbreaking and unacceptable. 

December 6 is a day to remember and grieve, as well as a call to each of us to help create safer spaces where everyone can live free from violence and fear. 

Everyone — especially men and boys — plays a crucial role in ending gender-based violence; allyship starts with calling out sexism, supporting survivors, and challenging societal norms. Together, we can build a future that puts women’s safety and well-being at the forefront. 

RRC Polytech Vigil 
As part of our recognition, RRC Polytech will be hosting a vigil today to honour the lives of the 14 women and all those we’ve lost to gender-based violence. We invite all staff and students to join us at 10:00 a.m. in the Roundhouse Auditorium at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae. The vigil will also be available by livestream.  

The flags at the Notre Dame and Exchange District campuses will be lowered to half-mast today in recognition. 

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence 
We encourage everyone to take part in the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (Nov 25 – Dec 10). This campaign encourages us to become an ally by practicing the following actions: listen, believe, educate (yourself and others), speak out, intervene, and act. 

Additional ways you can support

• Wear a white ribbon as a commitment to never engage in, condone, or stay silent about violence against women and girls. Learn where to pick-up ribbon on campus.

• Participate in conversations and awareness activities throughout the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. 

• Learn more about gender-based violence and what supports are available.    

Today, as we mourn the 14 women lost to gender-based violence, let us stand with all those in our community who have been impacted. Together, we share the responsibility to create a future where everyone—women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals—can live safely and freely. Let’s renew our commitment to end gender-based violence. 

December 6 may be a difficult day. Students can access support through Campus Well-Being. and staff through the Employee and Family Assistance Program. Please take care of yourselves and each other.