On the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, we take time to remember the victims of the tragedy that took place on December 6, 1989, at Montreal’s École Polytechnique. The lives of 14 women were tragically taken, and many others were injured in an act of gender-based violence.
The Office of Anti-Racism, Equity, and Human Rights Services and the Assaulted Women's and Children’s Counsellor and Advocate (AWCCA) program hosted an online event to mark the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. It included remarks from George Brown College President Dr. Gervan Fearon, the annual École Polytechnique Memorial Award presentation, a memorial service and a panel discussion.
Creating accessible and equitable environments
The George Brown College community is proud of the work we have done and continue to do to create more accessible and equitable environments. Visit the Office of Equity, Anti-Racism and Human Rights Services webpage to learn about initiatives, available services, and support.
“Through our career-focused programs and community partnerships, George Brown is breaking down the barriers that reinforce notions of male-exclusive fields or trades. We are working to re-balance the playing field and reinforce the context of inclusive post-secondary education,” George Brown College President Dr. Gervan Fearon said.
“The college is especially proud to offer the Assaulted Women’s and Children’s Counsellor/Advocate program, or AWCCA. One of the only programs of its kind in Canada, it prepares students to become agents of change in their communities.”
École Polytechnique Memorial Award
AWCCA student Nouran Hussein is the 2022 recipient of the program’s École Polytechnique Memorial Award. The award is presented annually to full-time students with solid academic standing and a demonstrated commitment to helping assaulted women.
“I am angry that 14 women had to die, and I am sad about lives lost to violence and hate,” Hussein said.
“In my program, I have been learning about oppression and how we can fight back while applying different frameworks. Every professor had taught me something about myself. They made me realize that our freedom starts with ourselves. It is all inside us, and we should never underestimate the power of people. I wish people would choose peace over war, love over hate, and roses over guns. This world can be a better place if we try to take steps.”
We remember the victims of the December 6 tragedy
Geneviève Bergeron
Hélène Colgan
Nathalie Croteau
Barbara Daigneault
Anne-Marie Edward
Maud Haviernick
Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz
Maryse Laganière
Maryse Leclair
Anne-Marie Lemay
Sonia Pelletier
Michèle Richard
Annie St-Arneault
Annie Turcotte
