December 6, 2016 

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

OTTAWA— December 6 marks a dark day in history. Fourteen bright young women were targeted simply because of their gender, and gunned down in the prime of their lives. 

The Polytechnique Massacre was not a random act of violence. It was fuelled by misogyny which, despite our best efforts, still persists to this day. 

December 6 reminds us that we must come together as a single force to fight prejudice and hatred. We must continue to speak out and take action against all forms of abuse, harassment and violence every chance we get. Above all, we must never let hatred define who we are. 

David Johnston 

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