On this day in 1989 fourteen women lost their lives at École Polytechique in Montreal because they were women. The anniversary of this tragic event has become our day to remember not only these 14 murdered women but everyone who is a victim of gender-based violence. The day serves as a solemn reminder of the violence women face and the urgent need to address gender-based violence in all its forms.
- Saskatchewan has some of the highest rates of homicides of women and girls in Canada.
- According to the Canadian Femicide Observatory at the University of Guelph, 169 women and girls were killed in Canada in 2024. On average a woman or a girl is killed every other day somewhere in Canada, usually by a man, and a woman is killed by her male partner on average once a week.
- The push to recognize femicide (the killing of a woman or girl because of their gender) as a distinct crime in Canada’s Criminal Code continues. Without it, there are data gaps related to gender-based violence. Currently, Statistics Canada’s homicide survey does not specifically capture femicide numbers.
Take time today to remember those 14 women who lost their lives in Montreal and all women who have suffered violence. Choose to take action on addressing gender-based violence. Whether we speak out against discrimination or bullying, fight for equality and economic safety or raise strong, compassionate children, every action counts.