December 6, 2017 

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

OTTAWA— On December 6, 1989, Canadians were stunned by the tragedy at Polytechnique that cost 14 women their lives and forever changed the lives of their families, their friends, their colleagues and the whole nation. We have a collective duty to remember, but we also have an obligation to do everything we possibly can to ensure that a tragedy like this never happens again. 

Together, we can work to break the silence, address inequalities and put an end to all forms of violence. I had the privilege of living and working for many years in other countries and have no doubt that one of the places in the world where equality of opportunity is a priority for all is here, in Canada. We believe fundamentally in equality for all.  

As we mark the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, let us stop tolerating the intolerable. Let us learn from the past to improve the present and create a future free from violence. Though the task may be daunting, it is possible to break the cycle of violence and change mindsets through education, dialogue and intervention.          

Julie Payette 

-30- 

Media information: 

Marie-Ève Létourneau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-0287
613-302-0912 (cell)
marie-eve.letourneau@gg.ca           

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