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National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

Join us as we remember and take action against violence towards women on this important day of remembrance. Together, we can make a difference.

Sunday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEDecember 6

OBSERVED INCanada

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYViolence Prevention

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On December 6, we observe the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This day was established in 1991 by the Parliament of Canada to honor the memory of 14 women who were tragically killed at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal in 1989. It also serves as a reminder to take action against gender-based violence and work towards creating a safer and more equal world for all individuals. Let's come together to commemorate this important day and stand in solidarity with victims, survivors, and advocates who are working tirelessly to end violence against women.

TIMELINE

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women Timeline

École Polytechnique Massacre

On December 6, a man entered l'École Polytechnique de Montréal and killed 14 women, claiming he was "fighting feminism". This tragedy is remembered annually.

Inauguration of Remembrance Day

The Parliament of Canada established the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in memory of the victims from the 1989 massacre.

Growing Awareness & Advocacy

Throughout the 2000s, awareness around the day spread, and it became widely recognized as a movement against violence towards women.

Inclusion in Status of Women Canada

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is officially included as a key date by Status of Women Canada.

The Rose Campaign

The YWCA launches the Rose Campaign, intensifying efforts to fight violence against women and girls around the National Day of Remembrance.

GET INVOLVED

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

Attend a candlelight vigil

Many communities hold candlelight vigils on National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women to honor the victims and survivors of violence. Check your local news or community center to see if there is one happening near you.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself and others

Take the time to learn about the issue of violence against women and share your knowledge with others. This could include reading books, attending workshops, or even just having conversations with friends and family.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a women's shelter

Women's shelters are always in need of volunteers to help support and empower survivors of violence. Consider spending some time on National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women volunteering at a shelter in your community.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser

Raise money for organizations that support survivors of violence against women by organizing a fundraiser. This could be a bake sale, a charity concert, or even an online crowdfunding campaign.

START

Start a conversation about consent

Use National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women as an opportunity to start important conversations about consent and healthy relationships. This could be with friends, family, or even within your own community or workplace.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

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

It promotes education and prevention

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women also aims to educate people about the warning signs of gender-based violence and how to prevent it. By spreading awareness and knowledge, we can work towards creating a safer and more equal society for everyone.

It raises awareness for gender-based violence

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women serves as an annual reminder to everyone about the prevalence of gender-based violence. It brings attention to this important issue and encourages people to take action towards preventing it.

It honors the victims of gender-based violence

This day is a tribute to the 14 women who lost their lives in the École Polytechnique massacre in 1989, but also serves as a memorial for all the women around the world who have been victims of gender-based violence. It reminds us to honor their memory by taking action against violence in our communities.

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