December 6 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada. Established in 1991 by the Parliament of Canada, this day marks the anniversary of the murders in 1989 of 14 young women at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal.

As well as commemorating the 14 young women whose lives ended in an act of gender-based violence that shocked the nation, December 6 represents an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the phenomenon of violence against women in our society. It is also an opportunity to consider the women and girls for whom violence is a daily reality, and to remember those who have died as a result of gender-based violence. And finally, it is a day on which communities can consider concrete actions to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.

Every year thousands of women across the country are seriously injured – or killed – by their intimate partners. Violence affects all kinds of women regardless of age, ability, race, religion, social class and status. Statistics Canada reports that over half of all women have experienced some form of physical or sexual violence; most are under the age of 25.

Local 79 remains committed to raising awareness of these issues through our committees, including the Status of Women Committee, the Human Rights Committee and through the office of our Equity Vice-President.

For additional information on this year’s candlelight vigil in Toronto, please click: http://www.womenwontforget.org/