Remembering, Resisting, and Reshaping: National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

Every year on December 6th, Canada observes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This significant day holds a profound place in our collective consciousness as it commemorates the tragic events that unfolded in 1989 at École Polytechnique in Montreal. On this day, 14 young women lost their lives to a heinous act of gender-based violence. The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women serves as a powerful reminder of this dark chapter in our history, while also motivating us to take action against all forms of violence targeting women. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of this day, the enduring battle against gender-based violence, and how we can collectively contribute to a safer and more equitable world.

Understanding the Significance:

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is a day of both reflection and action. Its key objectives are as follows:

1. Remembering the Victims: This day allows us to remember the 14 young women who lost their lives in the École Polytechnique tragedy and to pay homage to all women who have suffered or perished due to gender-based violence.
2. Raising Awareness: It provides a platform to raise awareness about the various manifestations of gender-based violence and the profound impact it has on women and society as a whole.
3. Taking Action: The day calls for concrete action to prevent and eliminate violence against women, demanding change at the individual, community, and institutional levels.

The Ongoing Challenge:

Gender-based violence remains a persistent and widespread issue, transcending geographical, cultural, and socioeconomic boundaries. It encompasses various forms, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, human trafficking, and femicide. Shockingly, one in three women globally has experienced physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, with devastating consequences for her physical and mental well-being.

Taking Action on National Day of Remembrance and Action:

1. Raise Awareness: Utilize social media, your community, and your workplace to disseminate information about this day, fostering greater awareness about gender-based violence.
2. Support Organizations: Get involved with local organizations and initiatives that are dedicated to preventing and responding to violence against women.
3. Speak Out: If you witness or suspect someone is enduring violence, be a voice of support and encouragement. Urge them to seek help from the appropriate resources.
4. Advocate for Change: Advocate for policies and laws that safeguard women’s rights and foster gender equality.
5. Promote Healthy Relationships: Educate others about the importance of healthy, respectful relationships, emphasizing concepts like consent, boundaries, and mutual respect.
6. Attend Events: Engage with events, seminars, and discussions centered on gender-based violence to broaden your knowledge and connect with like-minded individuals.

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women stands as a poignant reminder that we must remain vigilant and resolute in preventing and eradicating violence against women. Through our collective efforts to raise our voices, support survivors, advocate for change, and promote healthy relationships, we can move closer to the goal of a world where all women and girls can live free from violence, discrimination, and fear. This day is an occasion for remembrance, resistance, and reshaping our society into one where gender-based violence has no place.