Hello members,  

The École Polytechnique massacre in 1989 remains a haunting moment in our Canadian history. Fourteen women pursuing engineering had their lives, dreams, and hopes stolen from them through an act of senseless violence, steeped in gender-based discrimination. This devastating incident shook our nation, shedding light on the deep-seated issues of gender inequality and violence against women. 

Today, on the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, ACTRA honours these lives lost. The memory of the Montréal massacre reminds us of the vital work needed to address misogyny and create a safer, more equitable society. It sparked crucial conversations and initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and ending violence against women. Their stories motivate us to redouble our efforts in confronting gender-based violence, fostering a culture of respect, safety, and equality in our industry and beyond. I encourage you to take the time to reflect, learn, or explore these resources:

Watch [CONTENT WARNING – graphic, violent, triggering]: From the prolific mind of Canadian filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, the movie Polytechnique serves as a poignant reminder of this tragic event. Even though 1989 feels distant for some, Polytechnique makes an imprint on generations to come, highlighting the importance of ensuring we never let such a heartbreaking incident happen again. 

Learn: Take the aftermetoo training to become a better ally and support the work of a wonderful organization while you learn more about gender-based violence. 

Share: Gender-based violence is a daily experience for some individuals, and it’s everyone’s responsibility to foster a culture of change. Let’s keep the conversation going in a safe, respectful way. 

We stand committed to advocating for change, amplifying voices, and tirelessly working towards a future where everyone, regardless of gender, can flourish without the fear of violence or discrimination. 

In solidarity, 

Eleanor Noble