The Unfading Scars of the École Polytechnique Massacre: A Call for Change 35 Years Later
Thirty-five years have passed since the horrific École Polytechnique massacre, a dark day in Canadian history when 14 women were tragically murdered and 13 others injured in a hate-fueled attack targeting feminists at Montreal’s École Polytechnique. While time may have passed, the wounds inflicted by this act of gender-based violence remain open, prompting communities across Canada, including Lethbridge, Alberta, to gather in remembrance and to reiterate the urgent need for tangible change. The act, perpetrated by a gunman who ultimately took his own life, serves as a stark reminder of the insidious nature of misogyny and the devastating consequences of violence against women. The commemorations in Lethbridge underscore the importance of remembering the victims and transforming grief into action to prevent future tragedies.
The gatherings in Lethbridge extend beyond mere remembrance; they serve as a platform for advocating for systemic change. Speakers emphasized the tragic reality that violence against women was prevalent long before the massacre and continues to plague society today. Lorien Johansen of the YWCA Lethbridge poignantly highlighted the sentiment that often a catastrophic event is needed to catalyze significant change, underscoring that despite the horrific nature of the École Polytechnique massacre, change has been frustratingly slow. This emphasizes the critical need to move beyond expressions of sorrow and translate intentions into concrete action. The commemoration events served as a rallying cry for accelerated efforts to address the root causes of gender-based violence and to dismantle the structures that perpetuate it.
Experts contend that education plays a pivotal role in fostering a culture of respect and equality. Leah Webster, from the University of Lethbridge’s sexual and gender-based violence prevention office, argues that as time marches on and new generations enter educational institutions, many of whom were born after the massacre, it becomes even more crucial to actively educate them about this tragic event. This underscores the need for ongoing education and awareness campaigns to ensure that the lessons learned from the massacre are not forgotten and that future generations are equipped to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviors. The University of Lethbridge unveiled a student-designed mural, a powerful symbol of remembrance and a call to action against gender-based violence. This artistic expression serves as a tangible representation of the university’s commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment.
The mural, created by second-year student Claire Lahey, represents more than just an artistic endeavor; it embodies the spirit of remembrance and the unwavering commitment to fight against gender-based violence. Lahey, born years after the tragedy, felt a deep sense of responsibility to honor the victims and to contribute to the broader movement to address the pervasive issue of violence against women. The mural serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the importance of using art as a medium for social change. The act of creation became a way for Lahey to connect with the past and to contribute to a more just future.
The commemorations in Lethbridge highlighted the importance of community support for survivors of domestic violence. Johansen emphasized the comforting effect that community solidarity has on survivors, reinforcing the message that they are not alone in their struggle. However, she also pointed out that the need for remembrance and support is a stark reminder of the failure to prevent violence in the first place. The ideal scenario, she stressed, is a society where violence is prevented entirely, eliminating the need for support services in the aftermath of traumatic events. This highlights the importance of proactive measures to address the root causes of violence and create safer communities for everyone.
The gatherings in Lethbridge symbolize a collective commitment to turning tragedy into a catalyst for positive change. Webster expressed the belief that even amidst immense sorrow, there is potential for growth and progress. The coming together of the community decades after the massacre is seen as a sign of hope and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The formal recognition of December 6th as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women by the Canadian government in 1991 further solidified the commitment to addressing this critical issue. This annual commemoration serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and action to create a society free from violence against women.
