Durham College (DC) stands with communities across Canada in recognizing the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on Saturday, December 6.
We pause to remember the 14 women whose lives were tragically taken on December 6, 1989, at the École Polytechnique de Montréal in a senseless act of hate and misogyny. The loss of these talented women with bright futures continues to resonate deeply within post-secondary institutions, including here at DC.
As we honour their memory, we also acknowledge all those whose lives have been forever changed by gender-based violence. This national day reminds us of our shared responsibility to create a society where everyone can live, learn, and thrive, free from violence. Achieving that goal requires ongoing commitment to challenging gender inequality and the beliefs and behaviours that sustain it.
We must confront harmful stereotypes, stand with survivors, and advocate for lasting systemic change. Education, awareness, and allyship remain among our strongest tools in ending gender-based violence.
In remembrance of this day, we’re hosting an event this morning at 11 a.m. in the Rotary Global Classroom (Centre for Collaborative Education, Room 145). If you can’t join us at the Oshawa campus, the event will be livestreamed, and a special viewing area will be available at the Whitby campus in Room 1-12 of the Don Lovisa Building.
Wherever you are, I encourage you to reflect on the lives lost and the impact of gender-based violence by wearing a white ribbon and observing a moment of silence at 11 a.m.
All flags at DC will be lowered to half-mast on Saturday.
Together, let us reaffirm our dedication to a safer, more equitable future for all — one grounded in respect, compassion, and justice
