It has been over 30 years since the murder of 14 young women at Polytechnique Montréal (December 6, 1989). This act of violent misogyny shook our country and led Parliament to designate December 6 as The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

On December 6, 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
• Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is about remembering those who have experienced gender-based violence and those who we have lost to it. It is also a time to take action. Achieving a Canada free from gender-based violence requires everyone living in this country to educate themselves and their families and communities on gender-based violence, centre the voices of survivors in our actions and speak up against harmful behaviours.

Ways to honour the victims of this tragedy on December 6:

• Wear a white ribbon. You can make one at home or order one online.
• Observe a moment of silence at 11:00 am.
• Attend a vigil in your community.
• Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn, and share our National Day of Remembrance post.
• Today and throughout the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence (from November 25 to December 10), add your voice to the conversation and share the ways you are being part of the solution to end gender-based violence. Use the hashtag #16Days.
• Learn more about the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV campaign and how to get involved

If you are in an emergency situation, please access 9-1-1 (in Canada), for emergency services in your area.

If you are outside of the 9-1-1 service area, please access available emergency services or call a crisis line in your area.

You may also want to consult the list of additional support services for people affected by gender-based violence.