In December of 1989 I was in the 2nd year of my undergraduate degree. In those days I had no television and the Internet was not available. Even so, on December 6th, 1989, I learned of the horrific murders that happened in Montreal at L’École Polytechnique. Fourteen women studying engineering were shot and killed and thirteen other students were injured. The gunman took his own life.
To say I was shocked was an understatement. The Montreal Massacre shifted my reality. I had previously felt safe as a woman in my university classes but that level of safety disappeared. I grieved the loss of these brilliant young women who were centred out and killed because of their gender.
Violence against women continues to be a major concern in Canadian society and educators are making a difference by taking action.
On average, a woman is killed every 48 hours in Canada as a result of intimate partner violence. Other acts of violence against women are reported at alarming rates. As women who teach we may experience violence against ourselves, our students, or members of our staff or community.
How do we respond to gender-based violence?
Gender-based violence (GBV) is violence committed against someone based on their gender, gender expression, gender identity, or perceived gender. GBV can take many forms, including physical, sexual, societal, psychological, emotional, economic and technology-facilitated violence. (Government of Canada)
Children who witness gender-based violence (GBV) may experience a range of physical, emotional, psychological, and social effects that impact their overall well-being and capacity to learn. Members can make a difference in the lives of these children by providing support and advocating for learning communities that are free from violence. (ETFO)
In our classrooms we can be vigilant about reporting violence. This is an important step toward having supports in place.
If you are experiencing or at risk of violence or harassment at work:
- Tell your administrator.
- Report all incidents (including attempts and threats).
- Call your ETFO local if you need support.
- Remember your right to refuse unsafe work.
- Find out more: https://etfohealthandsafety.ca/site/workplace-violence/ (ETFO Voice; Summer 2022.)
ETFO continues to recognize the issue of gender- based violence and you can find more information through your local. In my area there have been vigils, fundraisers for local women’s shelters, awards to promote women, and conferences where we learn, share and lift up women.
Written in memory of the women killed in Montreal on December 6, 1989.
Geneviève Bergeron; Hélène Colgan; Nathalie Croteau; Barbara Daigneault; Anne-Marie Edward; Maud Haviernick; Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz; Maryse Laganière; Maryse Leclair; Anne-Marie Lemay; Sonia Pelletier; Michèle Richard; Annie St-Arneault ; Annie Turcotte
