Thirty-one years ago, 14 women lost their lives at the hands of unspeakable misogynistic violence – they were murdered because they were women. Another ten women were injured that day and as awful as that event was and remains in our memory, women are still experiencing gender-based violence in this country daily.
We remember and honour the women who died at École Polytechnique all those years ago and as we mourn the loss of their futures and potential, we also must remember the many others who have suffered violence because of their gender.
During the pandemic, we have seen rates of violence against women increase. The pandemic has caused a lot of pain for many people in many ways, but it has also shone a spotlight on some serious problems plaguing our society and caused us to pay attention. From this chilling and stark awareness, I hope we can renew our efforts to combat gender-based violence to create a better future for women and girls and indeed for our entire society at large.
I wish to thank all the students and staff involved in planning the memorial event and the care they have put into organizing it. It is important we never forget and continue to strive for a society that values people regardless of their gender and one that is safe and just for all.
Patrick Deane
Principal and Vice-Chancellor
December 4, 2020