Statement on National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

Today – the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women – we remember the horrible murders of 14 young women at the Polytechnique Montreal in 1989.  This violent and misogynistic act continues to reverberate through our collective memory more than 30 years later.

On behalf of the Council and Town of Saugeen Shores, I want to reaffirm our commitment to fight the hatred that led to this tragedy, and the misogyny that still exists today.  Women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals continue to face terrible levels of violence and discrimination around the world, across our nation, and even in our own community.  That is why I have ordered the Town’s flags lowered to half-mast to mark this sombre occasion. 

But it is not enough to remember; we must also take action.  That’s why I’m asking residents to wear the white ribbon and to attend the Canadian Federation of University Women’s vigil at Port Elgin’s Coulter Parkette today at noon.

I also ask one more thing: if you see or know of ongoing violence against women, report it.  It is only through education and action that we as a society can stamp out this terrible behaviour.

If you are witnessing a crime, or know of someone in crisis, please call 9-1-1 immediately.