The following message contains content related to gender-based violence, and may cause strong emotions to arise, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that you read the message when you feel safe and supported.

In Canada, we recognize the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on December 6, to commemorate the 14 women at Polytechnique Montréal whose lives were taken due to violent misogyny. It is a time to honour these women’s lives and commemorate all the women and gender-diverse folks that we have lost due to gender-based violence.

RRC Polytech is hosting a vigil on Friday, December 6, 2024. All staff and students are invited to join the College community as we foster hope and healing for a future free from gender-based violence.

December 6 Vigil

• Date and Time: Friday, December 6, 2024, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
• Location: The Cave, Notre Dame Campus (Mall Level, Building E)
• Speakers and Guests:
  • Grandmother Janice, Grandmother-in-Residence, RRC Polytech
  • Fred Meier, CEO and President, RRC Polytech
  • Maria Mendes, Director, Campus Renewal and Environmental Stewardship, RRC Polytech (emcee and host)
  • Angela Grace Felipe, President, RRC Polytech Students’ Association

ASL-English interpretation will be provided. At RRC Polytech, we strive to host inclusive events. If you require accommodation, please email events@rrc.ca.

Please note that registration is not required. Coffee and tea will be provided.

Additional Ways to Recognize December 6

• Wear a white ribbon
• Observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m.
• Visit the reflection space at the Exchange District Campus. More details to come.
• Learn more about gender-based violence

About White Ribbons

Wearing a white ribbon symbolizes your pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and girls. White ribbons also remind us to pause, to commemorate all women who have been killed or affected by violence, and to reflect on what can be done to help end violence.

RRC Polytech has purchased ribbons for staff and students to wear from White Ribbon. The organization was founded two years after the Massacre in Montreal when a group of men came together to look for safe ways to support women through education and allyship. This Canadian organization seeks to prevent gender-based violence through changing behaviors, attitudes, and values of man and boys throughout Canada and the world. Their values are Gender Justice, teaching men and boys how to respect women and girls, Anti-Oppression, Collaboration, Innovation, Integrity, and Compassion.

Where to Pick-Up a White Ribbon

White ribbons will be available soon. Please stay tuned to Staff and Student News for pick-up locations.