Sombre ceremonies mark 27th anniversary of the Montreal Massacre
Posted December 6, 2016 8:45 am.
Last Updated December 6, 2016 1:11 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
MONTREAL, QUE. (NEWS 1130) – Polytechnique Montreal opted for a simple commemoration today to mark the 27th anniversary of the massacre that saw 14 women gunned down at the school. A bouquet of 14 white roses was placed at a memorial plaque in honour of the 13 students and one staff member killed on December 6th, 1989.
The school says campus flags have been lowered to half-mast from dawn until dusk today.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement today saying the victims were killed “simply because they were women.” He adds the statistics relating to violence against girls and women are unacceptable and he encouraged a conversation about how to end gender-based violence.
“Far too many girls and women, here in Canada and around the world, suffer physical and psychological harm at the hands of others — often people they love and trust.”
He says Canada has taken steps to invest in several programs to promote gender equality. “By supporting education and prevention efforts, as well as helping those who have been targeted by gender-based violence. For example, we will continue to grow and maintain Canada’s network of shelters and transition houses, so no one fleeing domestic violence is left without a place to turn.”
West Vancouver Police, along with North Vancouver RCMP are holding an event along with the Violence Against Women in Relationships Committee. The walk begins at 11:30 a.m. from the Chief Joe Mathias Centre on Capilano Road, and will end with a memorial at Ambleside Park.
