National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is observed on December 6 in Canada. It commemorates the 14 women who were murdered at Montréal’s École Polytechnique in 1989 simply because they were women, while honoring all those affected by gender-based violence.

This day is both a time for remembrance and a call to action. It encourages people and communities to reflect on the causes and impacts of violence against women, speak out against misogyny and inequality, and support efforts that promote safety, respect, and gender equality. Through learning, compassion, and meaningful action, we can help build a future free from violence.

The **National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women** is observed in Canada on **December 6**. It commemorates the fourteen women who were killed at École Polytechnique in Montréal on December 6, 1989. The victims were engineering students targeted because they were women. The attack became one of the most painful examples of gender-based violence in Canadian history and prompted a national discussion about misogyny, discrimination, and women’s safety in educational institutions and workplaces.

In response to the tragedy, the Parliament of Canada officially designated **December 6** as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in 1991. The observance was intended not only to honor those who died, but also to encourage practical efforts to prevent violence against women. Its wording deliberately combines remembrance with action: public mourning is connected to broader responsibilities involving education, prevention, support for survivors, and challenging attitudes that enable gender-based violence.

Over time, December 6 has developed into a national day of ceremonies, memorial services, educational programs, and community initiatives. Schools, universities, governments, workplaces, and advocacy organizations may hold moments of silence, display memorials, discuss the history of the École Polytechnique attack, or promote programs addressing intimate-partner violence, harassment, and violence against women and girls. The day is also associated with the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women Memorial, including public efforts to preserve the victims’ memory and strengthen awareness of the continuing problem.

The observance has cultural significance beyond the original tragedy. It provides an annual opportunity to remember the fourteen victims as individuals while recognizing the wider experiences of women affected by violence. It also reflects Canada’s continuing national conversation about equality, public safety, misogyny, and the need for institutional and social change. On **December 6**, remembrance therefore serves as both a tribute to those lost and a call for sustained action to create communities free from violence against women.