This release was issued under a previous government.
Status of Women Minister Stephanie McLean hosts a vigil to mark the National Day of Remembrance
“Twenty-seven years ago, 14 female students were tragically murdered at l’École Polytechnique in Montreal. They were killed because they were women.
“It wasn’t just an attack on women. It was an attack on feminism, on women who venture into traditionally male domains.
“Today, Albertans joined me in a vigil in their honour, to remember them and to reflect on our collective responsibility to take action on violence against women.
“Feminism is our continued struggle for gender equality. We are not there yet. Every four days a woman is killed by a family member in Canada. Most times, the violence is committed by a man.
“To be free from violence is a basic human right. Violence isn’t always obvious, but it’s always devastating, be it a demeaning comment, physical or sexual violence — or taking a life.
“It’s on all of us to end the violence, because we cannot achieve gender equality as long as women and girls face abuse and assaults.
“I call on Albertans, especially men, as allies in our work to shut down violent language, model healthy relationships and seek help when help is needed. We can all be part of the solution to end violence against women and girls.”
Where to go for help
- Call 911 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger
- Call the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818 if you suspect that someone is experiencing family violence
- Bullying Help Line: 1-888-456-2323
- Sexual Assault Centres:
- 780-482-HELP (north)
- 403-266-HELP (south)