Why we started

Dec. 6th is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. UNBC and the Northern Women’s Centre typically host a commemorative event to recognize the Dec. 6th Montreal Massacre, when 14 women were killed at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal, on a Wednesday in November – while students are still in class (This year it will be held on November 25). The women killed on Dec. 6th, 1989, were targeted for being women in university and, particularly, women in science. Canadian campuses often mark the event, and especially recognize violence, threats, and other means used to try and prevent women from attending or succeeding at university.

Inspiring Women Among Us was developed to honour the participation of women in academia and other male-dominated fields and encourage UNBC and Prince George community members to engage with related but broader topics, expanding discussions beyond the ceremonial day of remembrance.

With Inspiring Women Among Us, we hope to continue to memorialize and recognize this tragedy and the impact of violence against women. However, we would also like to recognize the potential of remembrance as a catalyst for action, and explore ways in which we might honour this date by continuing the effort to ensure that women are welcome, inspired, and safe when pursing an education or job opportunity.