December 6, 2015 – On every day and especially on the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, Young Professionals and Skilled Workers Association (YPSWA) condemns violence against women.

As we remember this day, it is important for us to reflect on all of the women and girls, both here in Canada and abroad, for whom violence is a daily reality, and to mourn those who have died as a result.

This day is held in remembrance of the 14 young women who were murdered on this date in 1989 at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal for no other reason than being women. It is with a heavy heart that YPSWA joins the families and friends of those promising young women here in Montréal today to mourn their tragic loss.

This was a senseless act of violence that shocked the nation and remains, to this day, one of the darkest periods in Canadian history.

Sadly on any given day in Canada, approximately 8,000 women and children are housed in shelters, largely for reasons of abuse. That is why we in Canada need to raise awareness of this flagrant violation of basic human rights, help prevent it, and support the victims who have experienced it, both at home and around the world.

YPSWA supports the initiative of the Liberal Government of Canada: an inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls to recommend concrete actions to address and prevent violence against them. YPSWA supports the introduction of legislation that will provide greater support for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Canadians have an important role to play in stopping violence against women and girls, and in denouncing misogyny in all its forms. We therefore urge all Canadians to make a commitment to stopping this degrading and dangerous behaviour.

YPSWA is a not-for-profit and federally registered and community-based organization, which offers a great way for young professionals, skilled workers and apprentices to network, socialize and expand their professional horizons. For more information about YPSWA, please contact YPSWA at info(@)associaitoncanada.org.