December sixth marks The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. A somber moment across Canada, it reflects on the lives lost to gender based violence and challenges every one of us to confront the reality that violence continues in our homes, workplaces, and communities. This date was chosen in remembrance of the fourteen women killed at École Polytechnique in Montreal in 1989. Their deaths serve as a stark reminder that gender based violence is not a historical issue. It is an ongoing process that requires collective, sustained action.

On this day, we remember:

• Nathalie Croteau

• Geneviève Bergeron

• Hélène Colgan

• Barbara Daigneault

• Anne-Marie Edward

• Maud Haviernick

• Maryse Laganière

• Maryse Leclair

• Anne-Marie Lemay

• Sonia Pelletier

• Michèle Richard

• Annie St-Arneault

• Annie Turcotte

• Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz

Waypoints stands firmly with those affected by violence. Through our programs, including Unity House Emergency Women’s Shelter, Second Stage Shelter, Child and Youth Advocacy Center, Sexual Trauma Support Services, Outreach Services, and Opportunities for Change, we work every day to ensure that individuals have access to safety, healing, and pathways forward.

This day calls us to reflect, but also to act. Locally, that includes advocating for safety, educating the community, supporting survivors, and collaborating with other regional partners to prevent violence before it begins. Each interaction, every training session, and all support offered through Waypoints is part of this action.

We invite community members to take a moment on December sixth to remember those whose lives were taken, acknowledge those still facing violence today, and consider how personal awareness and community engagement can drive change.

For more information about The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, please visit the Government of Canada’s website.