National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women - December 6

Each year on December 6, Canadians observe the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This day honours the memory of all those who have been affected by gender-based violence, including those who tragically lost their lives.

From November 25 to December 10, Russell Township is taking part in the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. This international initiative calls on communities to help end violence against women and girls. The 16-day period includes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on December 6, which marks the anniversary of the 1989 École Polytechnique tragedy in Montreal, where 14 young women were murdered.

As a visible sign of solidarity, male elected officials and staff were photographed at the November 24, 2025, Council Meeting wearing white ribbons to reaffirm their commitment to ending gender-based violence. The white ribbon is a meaningful symbol encouraging men to stand against sexism, harassment, and violence. Russell Township joins neighbouring municipalities and community partners across the region in showing collective support for this important cause.

 In alignment with regional efforts, Russell Township has declared December 6, 2025, as the Day of Non-Violence. Residents are encouraged to take action by:

• Participating in vigils organized by the Prescott-Russell Coalition to End Violence Against Women.
• Supporting survivors through concrete, compassionate actions.
• Joining province-wide efforts to help end gender-based violence.
• Wearing a white ribbon to demonstrate support for the White Ribbon Campaign.

Vigils in Prescott-Russell – December 6, 2025, at 4 p.m.

Residents are invited to attend one of the following commemorative ceremonies honouring the women whose lives were taken by violence:

• Rockland: Commemorative monument, Simon Park (1450 Park Avenue)
• Casselman: Commemorative monument, Senior Park (802 Laval Street)
• Hawkesbury: Commemorative monument in front of Town Hall (600 Higginson Street)

To mark the observance, flags will be lowered to half-mast on all municipal buildings and Township locations from sunrise to sunset on December 6.

If you or someone you know is experiencing gender-based violence, support is available. Access local resources here: www.coalitionviolencepr.ca/en/resources/resources-infos