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News Releases
December 6, 2003
CANADIANS CALLED TO REMEMBER AND TAKE ACTION AGAINST VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
OTTAWA -- Canadians across the country will reflect on the lives of women and girls who are survivors of violence and remember those who died as a result of violence. Candlelight vigils, memorial services, and film viewings and discussions are just some of the many ways Canadians will mark December 6, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
December 6, 1989 will be forever marked in Canada's history as the day 14 promising young women were murdered at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal because of their gender. This tragic event opened the eyes of many Canadians to the reality of gender-based violence within Canada. In 1991, the Government of Canada established December 6 as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Many organizations, schools and individuals take this day to pause and reflect on the phenomenon of violence against women in our society and on concrete actions that each Canadian can take to prevent and eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.
"Much has changed since that tragic day in 1989 to help put an end to violence against women and girls in Canada and around the world," said the Honourable Jean Augustine, Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women), "Yet, despite efforts from various organizations and governments, there still remains much more to be done as many women and girls still live daily with the threat of violence. All Canadians must continue to remember and take action, not only on this day but every day of the year."
For a list of some of the activities happening across the country, please visit our Web site at http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca/dates/dec6/index_e.html.
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