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December 5, 2010
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— December 6 is an anniversary we wish didn’t exist. It is a black mark on our history, a day of lost innocence, of sorrow and shame. It is our nation’s Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
On this day, we will remember. We will remember the 14 women murdered at l’École Polytechnique in Montréal, and every woman since who has struggled to break free of brutality and inequality. We will remember that violence afflicts women of all ages and social conditions, causing untold pain to its victims and hurting us all in the process.
On this day, we will act. We will push back against prejudice, fight against unfairness, and refuse to turn a blind eye on such deplorable deeds. We must learn to co-exist side-by-side, to co-operate with one another, to contribute to the advancement of all who live within our great country of Canada.
On this sombre occasion, I challenge all Canadians to come together on this day—and every day—to bring an end to all forms of violence against women.
David Johnston
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Media information:
Annabelle Cloutier
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-993-8158
annabelle.cloutier@gg.ca