City recognizes National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women on December 6

The City recognizes December 6 as the National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women. On December 6, 1989, 14 women were murdered at the École Polytechnique de Montréal in an attack driven by hatred of women’s rights.  

On this day, we pause to honor these women’s memories and reflect on how gender-based violence affects women today. It also serves as a call to action for us all to work towards preventing violence and advancing gender equality. Here in Saskatchewan, the City also acknowledges the harm and violence that is disproportionately directed at Indigenous women and girls.  

According to a Statistics Canada report released this year, Saskatchewan had the highest rates of reported family violence and intimate partner violence among the provinces in 2023 with 741 victims of family violence and 710 victims of intimate partner violence per 100,000 population. In Saskatchewan, Canada and around the world, women and girls face unacceptable violence and discrimination. 

The City is asking employees to wear a white ribbon or moose hide pin on December 6 as a way to initiate conversations on harmful words and behaviours that contribute to gender-based violence. The flags in Civic Square (south lawn of City Hall) and at all City of Saskatoon facilities are lowered each year on this day to remember the Polytechnique Montréal women and to honour all victims of gender-based violence. 

These conversations are important and so is understanding what supports are available. If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation and could use support, visit https://abuse.sk.211.ca.  Saskatchewan 211 has an incredible list of resources for many types of violent or abusive situations and can connect individuals with the supports nearest them. As always, if a person is in immediate danger, call 911.