December 6 is recognized across Canada as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
The date marks the 1989 murder of 14 women at École Polytechnique in Montréal, an event that prompted a national examination of gender-based violence and led Parliament to formally designate this day of observance.
The women killed on December 6, 1989 were:
The tragedy is widely understood as an act of violent misogyny. More than 30 years later, the event remains a central point of reflection in Canadian history and continues to shape public discussions on safety, gender equality, and the prevention of violence.
Today, the observance is intended to honour the victims, support survivors, and raise awareness of the ongoing prevalence of gender-based violence in Canada. Police services, shelters, and community organizations have documented increases in gender-based violence, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many reported higher volumes of calls for help. Women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals continue to experience disproportionate rates of violence and discrimination.
The day also calls for individual and collective action. Canadians are encouraged to learn about the impacts of gender-based violence, recognize harmful behaviours, and support prevention efforts. The voices of survivors and their experiences are central to these initiatives.
One symbol associated with December 6 is the white ribbon. Wearing a white ribbon represents a personal commitment to ending gender-based violence. The White Ribbon Campaign began in Toronto in 1991 and has grown into a global initiative involving men and boys in more than 60 countries.
Communities across Canada mark the day through vigils, moments of silence, educational events, and online participation. Observances often take place at 11:00 a.m., with individuals and groups gathering to reflect on the lives lost and the work that remains.
The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is also part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, an annual international campaign that runs from November 25 to December 10. Key dates within the campaign include the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25 and Human Rights Day on December 10.
The message behind December 6 remains consistent: the prevention of gender-based violence requires long-term commitment from individuals, communities, and institutions. Remembering the victims of the Polytechnique Montréal tragedy is one part of that effort, along with ongoing education, support for survivors, and active participation in creating safer environments for all Canadians.
