December 6, 2013

Message from the Governor General on the Occasion of the
National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

OTTAWA—The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, established in 1991 by the Parliament of Canada, is a day on which our whole society can reflect on eliminating all forms of discrimination against women and conjugal violence. Every act of violence and disrespect is uniquely repugnant to all Canadian men and women. 

December 6 remains etched in our nation’s collective memory as we recall the horrific killing at the École Polytechnique de Montréal in 1989. On that day, our country was plunged into despair, and in memory of the victims, we pray today that such a despicable act will never be repeated, and we affirm that we will never tolerate violence against women in any form. 

My thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims, whose sudden, brutal deaths are an incalculable loss for all Canadian women and men. May all those who have suffered this painful loss ultimately find the strength to overcome this tragedy.  

David Johnston

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Media information: 

Marie-Ève Létourneau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-0287
marie-eve.letourneau@gg.ca 

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