How London will honour victims of violence against women today
Several social agencies are holding memorials today
On the anniversary of the École Polytechnique massacre, local social agencies are honouring women who are victims of violence, and joining supporters across the country in a national day of remembrance.
On this day in 1989, 14 women were shot and killed at École Polytechnique in Montreal by a gunman professing to hate feminists. Today is also known as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
Several agencies are also shedding light on current struggles that women face.
Dani Bartlett, representative of United Way London and Middlesex, helped organize Tampon Tuesday. The event has gathered about 5,000 boxes of donated feminine hygiene products for donation to clients of the London Food Bank, My Sisters Place, Nokee Kwe, and several other social agencies.
Bartlett said there's still plenty of work to be done when it comes to addressing violence against women.
"We [need] to remind people it's still not safe for women it's still not safe for girls," she said. "Equity for women and women's issues needs to be talked about right from the fact that our bodies are different. The way we're seen in society is different. The way we're paid is different. The way that we're educated is different.
"And women living in poverty have this extra layer."
She advises Londoners to attend local vigils to mourn the 14 women killed. She said it would also be a strong show of support for women who are victims of violence.
Memorials:
- My Sisters Place: 12 p.m.
- Victoria Park: 5:30 p.m.
If you know of any more memorials happening across the city, e-mail londonnewstips@cbc.ca