20th anniversary of the École Polytechnique tragedy

    
    Montréal Proclaims December 6 the Montréal Day of Remembrance and Action
    on Violence Against Women and Girls
    

MONTREAL, Dec. 5 /CNW Telbec/ - Montréal Mayor Gérald Tremblay and Helen Fotopulos, member of the Executive Committee responsible for Culture, Heritage and the Status of Women, marked this 20th anniversary of the École Polytechnique tragedy by proclaiming December 6 the Montréal Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women and Girls.

Twenty years ago, Montréal was shattered by this horrifying incident that left 14 young women dead and their families-along with the entire Montréal community-in shock.

"December 6 is a tragic anniversary for Montréal. We will always remember the catastrophic event that destroyed 14 lives and drastically altered so many others. Proclaiming December 6 the Montréal Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women and Girls is one way of expressing our Administration's commitment to and solidarity with those who take action to stop violence," said the mayor of Montréal.

"Commemorating the sad events of December 6, 1989 offers an opportunity to reassert our society's fundamental values. By making this date one of remembrance, Montréal's elected officials are taking a stand against violence toward women, a transgression of our basic human rights. We are at the same time vigorously restating our determination to pursue ongoing activities to promote tolerance, peace, inclusiveness and equality among all residents," said Ms. Fotopulos.

The Tremblay administration has waged vigilant efforts and made numerous commitments to promote equality and development for women. The city plays an influential role as Co-Chair of the Réseau international femmes et gouvernances locale de Métropolis, which seeks to increase the representativeness of women in local governments and in the decision-making process among local officials. Montréal is also home to the international offices of this network.

Elected officials will wear a white ribbon on December 6 in memory of the victims. Large white ribbons will also be draped over the doors of City Hall and members of the Executive Committee will place a floral tribute at Place du 6-décembre-1989 in memory of the 14 young women who lost their lives that day.

"We have a collective obligation to remember what happened on December 6. I hope you will think about these young women who have left us, as well as their families," said Montréal Mayor Gérald Tremblay.

For further information: Renée Pageau, Media Relations, [phone]; Source: Martin Tremblay, Office of the Mayor and of the Executive Committee, [phone]