The holiday season is a time when the snow assembles, and it’s also a time for families, friends and loved ones to assemble in celebration – to foster hope, love and new beginnings.

As this year comes to an end, RRC Polytech would like to extend its best wishes and heartfelt gratitude to each one of you and your loved ones.

We are proud and grateful for the diversity and richness every member of our community brings to our campus, and recognize the importance of fostering inclusion and respect for all cultures, traditions and beliefs.

While you connect and celebrate with your loved ones, remember that the holiday season holds a different meaning for everyone. Whether it’s Yule, Winter Solstice, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, New Year’s or another holiday, let’s honour and embrace the rich diversity of cultures and celebrations.

Here are the dates of some holidays celebrated in December:

• Yule: Saturday, December 21
• Winter Solstice: Sunday, December 22
• Hanukkah: begins Wednesday, December 25
• Christmas Day: Wednesday, December 25
• Kwanzaa: Thursday, December 26

We encourage everyone to share their traditions and celebrations by completing the Celebrate Everything form. By sharing what you celebrate, you’re helping inform what RRC Polytech shares year-round for special holidays and days of importance in Staff and Student News as well as the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion on Campus blog.

Let’s continue to carry forward the values of kindness, compassion, inclusion, and mutual respect as we move on to new beginnings with the New Year.

Once again wishing everyone a joyful, peaceful and prosperous holiday season!

Human Rights Day is observed globally on December 10, in recognition of the United Nations General Assembly’s proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948.

The UDHR outlines the fundamental rights of all humans – including equality, life, freedom, and security – regardless of religion, language, gender, race, colour, opinion, property, or status.

Ways to Participate in Human Rights Day

Learning about human rights helps empower us to advocate for our rights and the rights of others.

For Human Rights Day 2024, the United Nations’ theme is Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now. The theme speaks to the everyday importance and relevance of human rights in our lives, acknowledging that we must do our part to speak up against hateful speech, correct misinformation, and counter disinformation. Together, we can mobilize global efforts towards a better, more equitable future for all.

• Read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
• Visit the Government of Canada’s website
• Learn about Canada’s contributions to drafting the UDHR
• Explore more about the UN’s Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now campaign
• Visit a UN online photo exhibit

Local Events in Celebration of Human Rights Day

Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights on Tuesday, December 10, to enjoy free admission along with special programming and activities. Learn more at humanrights.ca.

Stop by The Forks on Tuesday, December 10, at 1:00 p.m. for a free Art + Human Rights Walking Tour. Hosted in collaboration with CMHR and Synonym Art Consultation, join artists Val Vint, KC Adams, and Jaimie Isaac, to gain insight on how art can share human rights stories, reflect the importance of place, and call for action. Register online at theforks.com.

The following message contains content related to gender-based violence that may trigger powerful emotions to arise, especially for those with lived experience of violence and victimization. It is recommended you read the message when you feel safe and supported.  Resources are available for those affected by gender-based violence, including REES (Respect Educate Empower Survivors), a community for survivors, a 24-7 Crisis Line, Gender-Based Violence Support in Manitoba and  additional support services. 

Every year on December 6, RRC Polytech recognizes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women today. Today marks 35 years since the tragic murders of these 14 young women at École Polytechnique in Montreal. 

We remember: Geneviève Bergeron, Hélène Colgan, Nathalie Croteau, Barbara Daigneault, Anne-Marie Edward, Maud Haviernick, Maryse Laganière, Maryse Leclair, Anne-Marie Lemay, Sonia Pelletier, Michèle Richard, Annie St-Arneault, Annie Turcotte, and Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz. 
 

These young women were deprived of their bright futures and opportunities to contribute to our society, with many close to graduating and having jobs lined up for them. 

This day serves as a solemn reminder to honour the 14 women who were killed and the 14 others who were injured on December 6, 1989 – at the hands of someone who claimed to be “fighting feminism.”  

Though 35 years have passed, the struggle against gender-based violence remains. In Canada and globally, women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals continue to face discrimination and violence. One in 3 women will experience violence in their lifetime which is not only frightening but also concerning.  

This day is not only a time to remember this tragedy but also all those who have experienced gender-based violence. To create a meaningful change, we must work together to eliminate the numbers entirely by protecting our sisters, mothers, friends, colleagues, partners and even strangers from harm. 

Everyone—especially men and boys— has a duty to challenge societal norms, attitudes, and behaviors triggering gender-based violence. Together, we can take the first step toward building a future prioritizing the needs and safety of women. 

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) (November 25 to December 10) calls for action to end GBV worldwide. Aligning with this year’s theme, Come Together, Act Now, reminds us, we all have a responsibility in creating a world free from violence—every day, everywhere.  

This morning, RRC Polytech is hosting a Vigil at The Cave(Notre Dame Campus) from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., to commemorate those we’ve lost, and foster hope and healing for a future free from violence. We invite staff and students to come together in solidarity to honour these 14 women and strengthen our commitment to putting an end to gender-based violence. 

Our flags are lowered at half-mast, and we encourage every student, staff and faculty member to attend the vigil or observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m., whether in the classroom, your workspace or at home. There is also a Reflection Room today from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. in the City View Room (Fourth Floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae. 

Other ways you can show your support:  

• Wear a white ribbon as a symbol of your commitment to never engage in, support, or stay silent about violence against women and girls. Learn where to pick-up ribbon on campus. 
• During the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based, join the conversation and share how you are contributing to the fight to end gender-based violence. Use the hashtag #16Days to amplify your voice. 
• Learn more about gender-based violence and supports available 

Today, as we grieve and remember the lives of these 14 women, let us hold onto hope for a safer and brighter future for women, girls, and gender-diverse folks. It is our shared responsibility to create a community and environment where everyone can live free from fear. 

December 6 can be an incredibly difficult day for many. If you need someone to talk to, support and help for students is available through Campus Well-Being. Staff have access to an Employee and Family Assistance Program through Homewood Health. Please take good care of yourselves and those around you. 

On December 1, World AIDS Day is observed globally, a tradition that began in 1988. At the time, fear, panic, and paranoia surrounded a new disease scientists were just beginning to understand. During the 1980s, HIV and AIDS devastated the lives of many queer individuals around the world. While the 2SLGBTQIA+ community experienced significant losses during this time, the disease does not discriminate. It affects men, women, children, low-income families, high-income families, straight people, queer people—everyone.

In 1988, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated December 1st as World AIDS Day. This day is dedicated to remembering those who lost their lives to the disease, combating the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, and inspiring global action to end this preventable condition.

What is HIV/AIDS?

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system by targeting white blood cells. This weakens the body’s defenses, making individuals more susceptible to infections, certain cancers, and diseases like tuberculosis. HIV is transmitted through bodily fluids, including blood, vaginal fluid, semen, and breast milk. Importantly, it cannot be spread through casual contact, such as hugging or kissing.

When left untreated, HIV can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a condition that significantly compromises the immune system and is often fatal.

How Can I Prevent HIV/AIDS?

The best way to prevent HIV/AIDS is through education and awareness. Understanding how the virus is transmitted and knowing the options available if diagnosed with HIV are crucial for prevention.

Key prevention methods include:

• Using condoms (male or female) during intercourse.
• Not sharing needles or syringes if you use injectable drugs.
• Taking Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) if you are at higher risk of contracting HIV.

Regular testing is another vital step. Many people unknowingly spread HIV because they are unaware they have it. Testing is simple and accessible, with options like at-home kits available for those uncomfortable visiting a clinic.

If you test positive for HIV, while it can be shocking, it is important to remember that it is a treatable condition. Advances in medicine have made effective treatment possible. With proper care, individuals can achieve an undetectable viral load, meaning the virus cannot be transmitted to others.

HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Although HIV can seem overwhelming, it is not the only risk associated with unprotected sex. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) can happen to anyone. Some people view STIs as embarrassing or taboo, but they are no different from catching a cold or the flu—sometimes, they just happen!

Many common STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, are easily treatable with a course of antibiotics.

Local Support and Testing Resources

Recently, RRC Polytech Health Services held a Sexual Health and Testing Clinic. Due to an overwhelming response, all available appointments were fully booked. If you missed out, don’t worry! Our Health Services team offers a variety of resources and support year-round for both staff and students.

Some of the resources available through Health Services are:

• Take home HIV testing kits
• Registered nurses for hands-on-care
• Pamphlets and information about STIs and HIV/AIDS
• And more!

Health Services is located at the Notre Dame Campus, room HM08 and can be accessed Monday through Friday,  8:00 a.m.  – 4:00 p.m.

Other resources

Manitoba Health

Manitoba Care Pathway

Manitoba HIV Program

Nine Circles Community Health Centre

Sisters of Fire

World AIDS Day.org

APTN story on spiking HIV rates among Indigenous People

The Bicycle : Fighting AIDS with Community Medicine (video)

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. Resources are available to support those in need, including REES (Respect Educate Empower Survivors), a community for survivors, 24-7 Crisis Line, and additional support services for those affected by gender-based violence. If you are in an emergency situation, please call 9-1-1.

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is an annual global campaign aimed at raising awareness and advocating for the elimination of GBV. The #16Days begin on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, include the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on December 6, and end on December 10, International Human Rights Day. These days of significance highlight the link between violence against women and girls and the violation of human rights.

1 in 3 women will experience violence in their lifetime. This number increases during humanitarian emergencies or when women lack access to essential rights such as education and healthcare. While violence affects women worldwide, certain groups such as women with disabilities, adolescent girls and older women, often face greater barriers in having their voices heard or accessing critical support.

This year, the United Nations’ theme for #16Days is #NoExcuse UNiTE to End Violence Against Women, because every 10 minutes a woman is killed. The crisis of gender-based violence is urgent globally, nationally, and right here at home.

How can you raise awareness and help eliminate gender-based violence?

Aligning with the Government of Canada’s theme for 2024, Come Together, Act Now, it is critical that everyone – including men and boys – come together to change societal norms, attitudes and behaviours that contribute to GBV. It is a call to learn and recognize the signs and take action to seek support for loved ones or ourselves.

• Learn more about gender-based violence
• Find out about 16 ways you can help end gender-based violence
• Check out It’s Not Just, a youth awareness campaign to end gender-based violence
• Attend an event in your community to support victims and survivors of gender-based violence. More details about RRC Polytech’s Dec 6 Vigil, below.
• Wear a white ribbon to signify your commitment to eliminating gender-based violence
  
• Become an ally by adopting these simple but powerful actions all year long:
  • Listen: be open to learning from the experiences of others
  • Believe: support survivors and those affected by violence. It is very important that you say the words “I believe you’’ and ‘’This is not your fault’’
  • Educate (yourself and others): learn the facts about GBV; know what your workplace policies say about violence and harassment; take a course; participate in an event
  • Speak out: add your voice to call out violence
  • Intervene: find a safe way to help when you see acts of gender-based violence. Name what you see. Express your concern and ask how you can help. Intervening can also mean providing support and resources
  • Act: give your time or donate to organizations working to end gender-based violence

Dec 6 Vigil: National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

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.

• Date and Time: Friday, December 6, 2024, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
• Location: The Cave, Notre Dame Campus (Mall Level, Building D)
• 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.

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 D)
• 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 Room at EDC
  • Friday, Dec 6 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. in the City View Room (Fourth Floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae.
• 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 are available as of Monday, December 2 at the following on-campus locations:

• Exchange District Campus
  • Campus Store – Main floor of Building P
  • Security Services – Manitou a bi Bii daziigae (main floor)
  • Security Services – Paterson GlobalFoods Institute, Room 100
  • RRC Polytech Students’ Association Office – P110
     
• Notre Dame Campus
  • Campus Store – Mall Level (just off the bus loop)
  • Security Services – C115
  • RRC Polytech Students’ Association Office – CM-20 (Mall Level, C Building)

On December 3, we join the global community in celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). A day dedicated to promoting understanding, increasing awareness, and mobilizing support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of people with disabilities. This year’s theme – Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for a More Inclusive Future – emphasizes the importance of access and inclusion, affirming our commitment to creating an environment where everyone can fully participate, thrive, and feel valued and included.

At RRC Polytech, we recognize that accessibility is a fundamental aspect of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Our ongoing work around enhancing physical, digital, and attitudinal access is essential to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Through initiatives focused on accommodations, universal design, and disability awareness, we strive to address barriers that might prevent students, staff, and faculty from realizing their full potential.

Why IDPD Matters

International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a powerful reminder that disability is a natural part of the human experience. By fostering understanding and encouraging open conversations, we help to challenge misconceptions, reduce stigma, and create a community where everyone feels they belong. This day is also an invitation to reflect on how we, as individuals and as a College community, can further our commitment to accessibility in meaningful ways.

Our Commitment to Accessibility

We are proud of the progress we have made in advancing accessibility across our campuses, from implementing accessible technologies and building infrastructure to offering accommodations that support students’ and employees’ diverse needs. But our work is far from over as it is a collective continuous effort. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to identifying and addressing barriers to access and working collaboratively to ensure that the College is a place where everyone has equitable opportunities to succeed.

Get Involved and Stay Engaged

In celebration of IDPD, we encourage everyone in the College community to:

• Learn more about the experiences of people with disabilities and explore ways you can contribute to an inclusive environment.
• Participate in upcoming events and initiatives that foster dialogue and learning around disability awareness and accessibility.
• Share your ideas and suggestions for how we can continue to improve access and inclusion on campus.

We invite students, staff, and faculty to join us for an insightful discussion on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, in the Cave Lounge at the Notre Dame Campus. This event features guest speakers from RRC Polytech and an alumnus who will be sharing their insights, challenges, and experiences related to accessibility and the importance of fostering an inclusive and sustainable future. This event is not only a chance to celebrate the work we’re doing but also an opportunity for us to learn from each other, exchange perspectives, and spark ideas that can drive transformative accessibility initiatives across the College.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, December 3, 2024
• Location: The Cave Lounge – NDC (Mall level of building E)
• Time:
  • 11:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
• Accessibility:
  • ASL-English Interpretation will be provided

Registrations will be open until November 29, 2024. Register Today and secure your spot!

Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities!

Post written by Atreya Madrone, Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech.

Please note that the following content includes discussions of transphobic violence and may bring up strong emotions for those with lived experience. It is recommended that you read the following when you feel safe and supported.

Transgender Day of Remembrance is observed annually as a day for people to come together to bring awareness to transphobic violence and to honour those whose lives were taken because of transphobic violence. It began in November 1999 when Gwendolyn Ann Smith was with other transgender people in her community, remembering Rita Hester, a trans woman who was murdered one year prior, and Chanelle Picket, a trans woman who was murdered in November 1996. From this night, Smith and her trans community members came together and held the first Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20.

One trans person’s death by transphobic violence is one too many. Yet, in 2023 alone, the Trans Murder Monitoring Report (2023) found that globally:

• 321 transgender people were reported murdered.
• 94% of these people were trans women or trans-feminine.
• For cases with age data available, 77% of people murdered were between 19-40 years old.
• Racialized transgender people accounted for 80% of the reported murders.

On Turtle Island, specifically the area now known as Canada, the 2018 Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces (SSPPS) reported that:

• 59% of transgender people have been physically or sexually assaulted at least once since the age of 15, compared to 37% of cisgender people.
• 58% of transgender people experienced unwanted sexual behavior in public in 2017, compared to 23% of cisgender people.
• 65% of transgender people reported fair or poor mental health, compared to 11% of cisgender people.

While being trans is a source of joy and celebration, transphobia remains a significant issue, deeply affecting the lives of transgender and gender nonconforming individuals worldwide. Transgender Day of Remembrance is not only a day of reflection, but also a call to action for cisgender people to commit themselves to ending transphobia in all its forms.

To the fellow trans people reading this, if you are struggling today, you can find immediate support by calling:

• The Klinic Crisis Line at (204)-768-8686
• Trans Lifeline at (877)-330-6366

Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil

Join us as we recognize Transgender Day of Remembrance. We will hold a moment of silence followed by donuts and time to decorate or sign cut-out candles that will be hung in the Spectrum at NDC.

• NDC
  • When: Wednesday, November 20th, 12-1 p.m.
  • Where: The Spectrum, FM66
• EDC
  • When: Thursday, November 21st, 12-1 p.m.
  • Where: The John and Bonnie Buhler Library, P214A

Let us honour the lives lost and work together towards a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major festival celebrated worldwide and the biggest holiday season of the year for the South Asian community. The celebration falls in October or November, based on the Hindu lunar calendar. This year, Diwali begins on October 31. 

The celebration of Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It holds different meanings within various regions and religions, and traditions vary also by region, family and personal customs. Some typical traditions include lighting oil lamps (diyas), decorating homes, setting off fireworks, sharing sweets, and spending time with loved ones. 

The RRC Polytech Students’ Association (RRCSA) invites all staff and students to a free, come-and-go Diwali celebration at the Exchange District Campus on October 29, 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. in the Roundhouse Auditorium (Second Floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae. A celebration hosted by the RRCSA is also planned at the Notre Dame Campus on November 8 in the Cave. More details to come. 

Wishing those who celebrate a Diwali filled with joy, prosperity, and light! 

The Anti-Racism Action Committee is excited to host our inaugural Social Justice Coffee House, and we warmly welcome all staff, faculty and students to join us for this inspiring event! The Social Justice Coffee house will be a collaborative event where participants are welcome to attend as audience members and/or as performers.  

Participants can sign up to share readings (poetry, fiction, non-fiction), sing songs, engage in discussions, or have cultural exchanges about social justice topics. The goal is to have a safe space to voice thoughts and feelings on social justice matters, connect with peers, and learn and grow.  

Date: November 4, 2024, Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM, Location: Prairie Lights, Notre Dame Campus 

What to Expect: 

• Open Mic Performances: Showcase your talents by playing an instrument, singing a song, or performing a spoken word piece. 

• Readings: Share an original work or read a selection from an author you admire that resonates with themes of social justice. Staff from the Library will be sharing poems and readings as well as having a collection of books on the topic to borrow. 

• Engaging Topics: Present on any social justice issues close to your heart—whether they’re global, national, or local. Are you trying to understand more about social justice issues? Please visit these links for more info: Fifteen Examples of Social Issues in Canada, The Society Library 

• Cultural Exchange: Experience a rich tapestry of perspectives and stories from our diverse community. 

Why Attend? 

• Express Yourself: This is a safe space to voice your thoughts and feelings on important social justice matters. 

• Connect with Peers: Meet like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact. 

• Learn and Grow: Gain new insights and broaden your understanding of issues affecting different communities. 

How to Participate: 

• Perform or Present: If you’re interested in performing or presenting, please fill out the form below with what you’d like to share. 

• Be an Audience Member: Even if you’re not performing, your support and presence contribute to the dialogue and community spirit. Please indicate that you will be part of the audience by filling out the form below. 

• After you fill out this form to indicate that you will be attending, you will be sent a meeting invite to hold the space in your calendar. 

Refreshments: 

• Complimentary coffee and light snacks will be available for all attendees. 

If you have any questions, please contact diversity@rrc.ca.