December 6, 2011

Message from His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston Governor General of Canada,
on the Occasion of the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

OTTAWA—On December 6, 1989, in a place of higher learning and innovation, an abhorrent act of violence occurred. Right in the middle of their lesson, the women were separated from the men and gunned down. Because they were women.

That a person so consumed by hatred could walk into a school and execute 14 students and maim so many others is beyond comprehension. What defies belief even further is that, every day, women throughout the world are still being exploited, beaten, harassed and killed. Because they are women.

The well-being of women is a central aspect to creating the smart and caring nation of which we dream. Today, Sharon and I encourage men and women alike to come together as equals, to remember those who have been lost to violence, and to step forward, in unison, toward a better future.

David Johnston

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Media information:

Christelle Legault
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-7280
christelle.legault@gg.ca

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