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News Releases
December 5, 2000
NATIONAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND ACTION ON VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
OTTAWA -- On December 6, 2000, Canada will mark the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women. Established in 1991 by the Parliament of Canada, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women coincides with the anniversary of the death of 14 young women who were tragically killed on December 6, 1989 at École Polytechnique in Montréal because of their gender.
"This day represents a time to pause and reflect on those who are affected by violence against women in our society. It is also a time to remember all the women who live daily with the threat of violence or who have died as a result of deliberate acts of gender-based violence. Last but not least, it is a day for communities and individuals to reflect on concrete actions to prevent and eliminate all forms of violence against women", said the Honorable Hedy Fry, Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women).
Of all victims of crimes against the person, women and girls make up the vast majority of victims of sexual assault (85%), criminal harassment (78%), other sexual offences (74%), kidnapping or abduction (62%) and common assault (52%). Despite the recent controversial ratio of female-male victims of spousal abuse, female victims are more likely to be subjected to severe forms of violence, such as being beaten, choked and sexually assaulted, than male victims. Women also tend to be more fearful of being victims of a crime in specific situations than men. As well, almost 7 out of 10 women (69%) feels somewhat or very worried while waiting for or using public transportation alone after dark, more than double the proportion of 29% for men.
"Status of Women Canada has made it a priority to eliminate systemic violence against women. But ending violence against women is a complex task which requires efforts of all members of our society - governments, businesses, media, legal system, health and social service organizations, voluntary organizations, and individual women and men, working together to effect real change. Everyone can and must do their part", added Ms. Fry.
To assist organizations and individuals in preparing activities to mark this special day, Status of Women Canada (SWC) has developed an Information Kit on violence against women. This kit is available on SWC's Web site (http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca/dec6/index.html) or by contacting Status of Women Canada.
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