National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

Categories:: Cause
Tags:: Awareness Canadian Women
Where:: Canada
Date change rule:: Every December 6
Holiday emoji:: 💜

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is observed in Canada every December 6. This solemn day marks the anniversary of the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre, urging Canadians to reflect on gender-based violence. Take action by supporting advocacy groups, educating yourself, and speaking out against hatred.

Deals
Platforms
Social
Brands
Hero
History
Timeline
Businesses
FAQs
Importance
Observe
Related

Expected National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women Deals

For the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, the focus shifts from commercial deals to profound acts of support and advocacy. Organizations like White Ribbon Canada and YWCA Canada spearhead campaigns, encouraging donations and participation in educational initiatives. Many local community centers and universities host vigils, discussions, and workshops aimed at raising awareness and fostering prevention. Corporate partners often engage through employee giving programs, matching donations to charities combatting gender-based violence, or sponsoring public awareness campaigns. Individuals are encouraged to donate directly to women’s shelters, crisis lines, and legal aid services. We will update this page with specific campaign details and events as December approaches.

Platform Guide for National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NDRAVAW. Share stories of resilience, advocate for change, and highlight organizations working to end gender-based violence.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NDRAVAW. Join the conversation, share resources, and amplify voices advocating for an end to violence against women.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NDRAVAW. Share event details, educational content, and calls to action within your community.

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women Hero

The 14 Victims of the École Polytechnique Massacre

On December 6, 1989, 14 young women were murdered at the École Polytechnique in Montreal in an act of gender-based violence. This tragic event galvanized Canada to establish the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Their memory serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to end violence against women and to foster a society of respect and equality.

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

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada honors victims of gender-based violence and those who have died because of it. It is also an opportunity to act and do our part to create a better world. We can overcome gender-based violence by reflecting and learning from the past, relating to survivors, and speaking against violent behavior.

The Canadian Parliament established the day in 1991 to commemorate the 1989 massacre at Polytechnique Montréal, previously École Polytechnique de Montréal. As we mourn the deaths, we must also remember all those who continue to be victims of gender-based violence. Canadians have constructed memorial sites throughout the country in response to the tragedy, ensuring that people are aware of the events, making society aware of how frequently violence against women occurs, and honoring the lives of those who have been killed.

Every act of violence against women is motivated by a perception that women are less human than males. As a result, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women commemorates more than one massacre. It is a call for awareness and change in the face of male violence against women worldwide. According to the United Nations, 35% of women are victims of some form of sexual and physical violence inflicted by an intimate partner or non-partner. This day serves as a reminder of the danger of the power imbalance between men and women worldwide and that we have a responsibility to do something about it.

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women timeline

1983

Bill C-127 is Passed

Bill C-127 is issued in Canada, making rape and sexual assault a crime within the context of marriage.

1985

Charter of Rights and Freedoms Activated

In Canada, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms establishes the right to equality, preventing the government from discriminating against people because of their gender or sexual orientation.

1989

The École Polytechnique de Montréal Massacre Occurs

An antifeminist shooter murders 14 women at the École Polytechnique in Montréal, Canada.

1991

Parliament Establishes the Holiday

The Parliament of Canada commissions the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women to mark the Montréal Massacre’s anniversary.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

Local businesses can honor the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women by fostering safe and inclusive workplaces. Consider implementing a donation matching program for employees contributing to local women’s shelters or violence prevention charities. Host educational workshops on bystander intervention or healthy relationships for staff. Display white ribbons or informational posters to raise awareness, and use social media to share resources from organizations like White Ribbon Canada or YWCA Canada, emphasizing a commitment to ending gender-based violence.

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women FAQs

When is National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women?

In 2026, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women falls on Sunday, December 6, a solemn day across Canada. This date marks the anniversary of the tragic École Polytechnique massacre.

Why is December 6 significant for this day?

December 6, 2026, marks the 37th anniversary of the horrific 1989 École Polytechnique massacre in Montreal, where 14 women were murdered. This event prompted Parliament to establish the National Day of Remembrance.

What is the White Ribbon Campaign?

The White Ribbon Campaign, often associated with this day, is the world’s largest movement of men and boys working to end violence against women and girls. In 2026, their initiatives continue to promote education and advocacy.

Is this day observed outside of Canada?

While the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is officially observed in Canada, similar days of activism and remembrance against gender-based violence exist globally, such as the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25.

How to Observe National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

Research and share information
The only way to win the battle is to know the enemy. Study the history of gender-based violence and share the information to help spread awareness and help those who need it.
Donate to charities
Donate to charities for victims of gender-based violence. Your donations go a long way in helping survivors adjust and cope with trauma.
Join local events
Look up participating organizations around you and join their events. Volunteer your time and lend your voice to the cause.

5 Shocking Facts About Gender-Based Violence

Child brides
Over 15 million girls under 18 get married every year; that is about 28 every minute.
Unwanted advances
Approximately 30% of females report that they were forced into their first sexual experience.
High risk
Females between 15-44 years old are more likely to be victims of domestic violence or rape than car accidents, cancer, or malaria.
High HIV numbers
In 2015, over 58% of HIV infections were attributed to young women and adolescent girls.
One too many
One in every three women worldwide is a victim of sexual or physical violence.

Why National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is Important

It creates awareness
We can’t change it if we don’t talk about it. This observance helps us create awareness about the violence that women suffer at the hands of men.
We leave an impact
We all get to act and stand against discrimination and gender-based violence. Our actions help change society’s attitude towards women and minorities.
To honor the victims
Countless lives are lost to the horrors of gender-based violence every year. This holiday is an opportunity to remember the victims we lost and what they endured.