December 6th Vigil 2022 – Owen Sound

Owen Sound, November 22, 2022 – Again this year, several local agencies are working together to commemorate the 14 women who were murdered by a lone gunman on December 6, 1989, in what has become known as the Montreal Massacre.

Starting at noon on Tuesday, December 6, community members are invited to gather at the Owen Sound Farmer’s Market (88 8th St E), to recognize the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
Drummers from the M’Wikwedong Indigenous Friendship Centre will perform before an opening prayer by Elder, Shirley John, followed by remarks from Lorne Pawis of M’Wikwedong Indigenous Friendship Centre, who will speak to the importance of male allyship and men’s role in the support and prevention of violence against women, girls,
trans and non-binary folks in contrast to male violence and toxic masculinity.

A commemoration to the 1989 victims, as well as to those women who continue to be impacted by violence, will follow.

Co-organizer, Jessica St. Peter of Women’s House Serving Bruce & Grey, says, “Gender-based violence has been seen in international war, politics, workplaces, national sports, local communities, and for many, within their own lived experiences. This annual vigil invites us to reflect on lives taken by gender-based violence and respond, by making personal and united pledges for change.” St. Peter’s co-organizer, Krystal Stukas of The Women’s Centre Grey Bruce, elaborates with, “Positive change can begin right here within our community, simply through the acknowledgement of gender-based violence. The more we discuss the issue, the quicker we can move towards a safer future, free of violence and abuse, for all”.

Organizers encourage those unable to attend the vigil to stop by City Hall on December 6, where a video installation highlighting the effects of gender-based violence will be present most of the day.

Please dress for the weather.