VICTORIA – New Democrat spokesperson for women’s issues Maurine Karagianis and Leader John Horgan issued the following statements in recognition of the National Day for Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

In 1991, the Canadian Parliament created this day in response to the massacre of 14 women at Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal on Dec. 6, 1989.

“I remember vividly the horror I felt when I learned 14 young women, working toward bright futures, were needlessly killed in Montreal all those years ago.

“My own daughters were away at school at the time and I was chilled to realize I couldn’t protect them and keep them safe. I mourned for the parents of those women suffering such a tragic loss as a result of unspeakable violence.

“While today is a day of remembrance and reflection on the impact violence against women has on our society, it is also an opportunity to take action.

“It is clear that we all have a role to play in eradicating violence against women, whether it is through our jobs, our volunteer work or our pocketbook by donating to organizations that help women in need.

“Protecting women and girls from violence is everyone’s responsibility, not just today, but every day.”  – Maurine Karagianis, New Democrat Spokesperson on Women

“Today is a day of remembrance, and for action.

“I join all British Columbians and Canadians who remember the 14 young women who were shot and killed at Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal 27 years ago today. The tragedy of how the students were singled out and murdered, solely because they were women, stays with me today.

“It’s so important for all of us to step up for women and girls who face the threat of violence every day and do whatever we can to stop it. There is simply no room for the hate and the hurt it causes in our society.

“While important work is being done, we can do better. We have a long way to go before we can achieve a future free of gender-based violence.

“I hope today, every British Columbian will join in remembrance and action, and stand together to prevent violence against women and girls.”  – John Horgan, New Democrat leader