Several community agencies have partnered to host an online vigil to commemorate the 14 women who were murdered by a lone gunman on December 6, 1989, in what has become known as the Montreal Massacre.

Organizers were forced to move the event online due to physical distancing restrictions caused by the pandemic. Community members are being asked to participate in the annual vigil by visiting https://tinyurl.com/y6ru8bca on December 6 at their convenience.

Recognizing December 6 as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, the online event will feature an opening prayer by Saugeen First Nation Elder, Shirley John, drummers from the M’Wikwedong Indigenous Friendship Centre, and a commemoration to the 1989 victims, as well as to those women who continue to be impacted by violence.

Speaking on behalf of the organizing committee, Jon Farmer, CMHA Men’s Program Supervisor and Coordinator of Violence Prevention Grey Bruce said that it was important to mark the day despite the pandemic.

“Traditionally, our community has gathered to remember these women and to recognize that gender-based violence is a deadly problem. This year’s vigil will look a bit different, but its purpose is still the same - to acknowledge that violence against women continues to be an issue in our country and in our community. December 6th is an opportunity to remind ourselves that this violence must end and that we all have a role to play in ending it”.

Nearby, the Canadian Federation of University Women Southport will host “Virtual Vigil Against Violence” live on Zoom at 12 p.m. Register on CFUW Southport website.

source: media release, The Women’s Centre Grey Bruce