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The following statement was issued today by Joan Burke, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women. It was also read in the House of Assembly: I rise today to recognize December 6 as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This day was established in 1991 by the Parliament of Canada to remember the Montr�al Massacre. On December 6, 1989, Marc Lepine walked into L�Ecole Polytechnique in Montr�al and opened fire, shooting 27 female engineering students. Fourteen of these women died, making this the worst mass murder in the history of this country. As a university student at the time, I remember the day vividly. I was attending the University of Toronto at the time, doing my masters in social work. I remember going home from class to hear the news of what had happened. In the days that followed, there were many emotional discussions with my classmates, social workers, one of whom was Lisa Zigler, who is now the executive director of the St. John�s Status of Women�s Council. We were all shocked by the brutality against these women and questioned how such a tragedy could possibly have happened. Sixteen years later I believe it is more important than ever that we remember the events of December 6, 1989. In addition to reflecting on the victims, we can also use this time as an opportunity to think about the women in our own lives and the difference they make in our homes, communities and workplaces. It becomes quite clear then that all women deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. I have asked that a purple ribbon be distributed to each member of the House today. The flags at the Confederation Building have also been placed at half-mast. As you pin on your purple ribbon, and as you look up at the flags, I ask you to stop for a moment and remember those women who were killed 16 years ago. As we approach the holiday season, it becomes increasingly important for us to reflect on the many good fortunes and loved ones that surround us. Many of us, this past weekend spent time with our families, shopping, putting up decorations and getting ourselves in the holiday spirit. But for the families of those who have lost loved ones in this tragedy, and for families who have been impacted by violence, this coming season will still carry with it tremendous sadness and loss. I ask that my honourable colleagues join me in a minute of silence out of respect for the victims, and to remind each of us of the importance and impact all women have in our communities and on our individual lives. 2005 12 06 1:50 p.m. |
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