Saskatchewan Marks National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

Media Release, Gov’t of SK
December 6, 2024

Key points from this story:

• White Ribbon Campaign raises awareness of gender-based violence
• 35th anniversary of ecole Polytechnique tragedy in Montreal
• Government committed to supporting survivors and prevention
• Community organizations crucial in delivering support services
• Cross-sectoral partnerships vital to combating gender-based violence
• Resources available for those seeking safety from violence

Today, people across Canada are wearing white ribbons to raise awareness of gender-based violence. The White Ribbon Campaign which coincides with the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women was started by a group of men in Toronto in response to the tragic events in 1989 at ecole Polytechnique in Montreal. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the tragic events, where 14 women were murdered in an act of gender-based violence.

"Violence against women affects us all," Minister Responsible for Status of Women, Alana Ross said. "Our government is dedicated to supporting survivors and breaking the cycle of violence, building safer communities for everyone. We will continue to focus on women's safety, security and wellbeing so Saskatchewan can live free from gender-based violence." "Any instances of gender-based violence are unacceptable, and our government is committed to continue investing in prevention, intervention and accountability for perpetrators of such acts," Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said. "As a province, we must all work toward a society that does not tolerate any form of gender-based violence to ensure a safe future for women and girls."

Community organizations like Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS) and Family Services Regina are central to delivering support to those in need. "Cross-sectoral partnerships between frontline agencies and government are vital to combating the attitudes that condone gender-based violence, the social conditions that create barriers for victims to leave abusive situations and exploring innovative solutions to preventing gender-based violence," Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan Executive Director, Jo-Anne Dusel said. "Together we can create a safer Saskatchewan for everyone."

"As we recognize this National Day of Remembrance, Family Service Regina is committed to advancing equity, reducing gender-based violence, and ensuring the right to safety for women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ community members," Family Service Regina CEO Kirk Englot said. "We stand together with our community and government partners in working toward a safer, more equitable future."

The Government of Saskatchewan is dedicated to promoting safety and wellbeing by providing resources to address various forms of violence. For tools and support service focused on interpersonal violence, visit: Seeking Safety from Interpersonal Violence: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/housing-and- renting/renting-and-leasing/saskatchewan-housing-benefit/seeking-safety-from- interpersonal-violence- stream. Services for those fleeing violence or abuse: facetheissue.ca. For how Government of Saskatchewan continues to support women and girls, check out information about the Status of Women Office: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/government-structure/boards- commissions-and-agencies/status-of-women- office.