National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women
3 Dec 07 -- The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women is a day commemorated in Canada each December 6, the anniversary of the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre, in which 14 women were singled out for their gender and murdered. It is often marked by vigils, discussions and other reflections on violence against women.Canadian flags on all federal buildings, including the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill, are flown at half-mast on December 6. In addition, Canadians are encouraged to observe a minute of silence on December 6 and to wear a white or purple ribbon as a commitment to end violence against women.
Ontario Nurses’ Association (ONA) sees this as an important day in the fight against violence, both at home and in the workplace. Members may have noticed may have noticed ONA commemorative posters in their workplace. ONA is also focused intensely on educating our members about violence and bullying in the workplace and how to reduce the occurrence of it.
Members can get more information about this issue by logging into the member section, and reviewing the bullying FAQs under "Member FAQs" and see our extensive violence initiative in the member "Health & Safety" section.
ONA's education team also offers a workshop called "Violence in the Workplace," which will be once again offered in 2008. The 2008 calendar of workshops will be available in the coming months. Please consider learning more about this issue by attending this workshop.
Please, take a moment to reflect on the impact of violence against women both at home and in the workplace.