Taking a Stand Against Gender-Based Violence

Edna Nortey
posted Dec. 4, 2023, 11:25 pm

December 6th marks the observance of the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This occasion unites communities throughout Canada to commemorate the tragic event of December 6, 1989. On this day, we remember the 14 women who lost their lives, and the other 14 injured, in a violent act of misogyny and hatred at the engineering school of Montreal's École Polytechnique.
The horrific events of the Montreal Massacre forced Canada to address the issue of gender-based violence. In the perpetrator’s suicide note, he attributed the downhill spiral of his life to feminists and outlined a list of 19 notable Quebec feminists to be targeted, showing that this event stemmed from a larger social issue—violence against women.
December 6 is part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global initiative aiming to put an end to gender-based violence. The campaign starts on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and continues until December 10.
As a school community, we must take a stand against all forms of gender-based violence. This occasion not only serves as a reminder but as a call to action that prompts us all to reflect and continue to push for change and improvements. This issue shouldn’t be a polarizing one, but an opportunity for us all to move forward together and join the collective fight against gender-based violence.
Bearing all this in mind, make sure to wear your white and don your white ribbons on Wednesday, December 6th to show your support and support the cause.
How to show your support:
-> Wear a white ribbon. You can make one or get one from SAC from your first-period teacher!
-> Check out local vigils and other commemorative programming in your community
-> Take some time to educate yourself on the causes and impacts of gender-based violence
-> Learn more about the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV campaign and how to get involved
-> Check out the White Ribbon Campaign website for more information
-> Spread the word and encourage your friends and family to take part in the movement
-> If you ever feel like you need any support, there is help available!
-> Government of Canada Support Resources

“Gender equality is critical to the development and peace of every nation.” - Qingrong Ma


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Empowering Voices: National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

Edna Nortey
posted Sep. 26, 2023, 3:48 pm

In Canada, education is a right that we are granted, allowing us to discover and pursue our passions and interests. We have a collective right to have a voice and be equitably represented in education. As this month comes to a close, it is pertinent that we realize the importance of Indigenous education, and more specifically, the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation .
On Saturday, September 30th, people across the nation will be clad in orange to recognize the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. This day acknowledges the residential schools in Canada, honours the countless young lives taken and serves to uplift the voices of survivors, families and their communities. As a school community, we will recognize this important day on Friday, September 29th.
How can you participate?



Stay tuned to Student Council Instagram stories for a chance to win a free orange shirt to show your support!




Wear orange on Friday, September 29th, to commemorate the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation with the TDSB!




Click here to access resources to learn more and get involved!




WLMAC will be hosting an Indigenous author, Karen Chaboyer. Click here to learn more about her and her story!



Wear your ORANGE Mac!


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