Why December 6 Matters
December 6 is observed annually. Learn why this day matters and explore resources to support survivors year-round.
December 6 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. It has been over 35 years since the murder of 14 young women at Polytechnique Montréal (December 6, 1989).
To honour the victims of this tragedy, add your voice to the conversation and share the ways you are being part of the solution to end gender-based violence on December 6 and throughout the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence (from November 25 to December 10).
For more information on supporting newcomer and immigrant women and gender-diverse people:
Immigration options for victims of family violence – Canada.ca
Help for spouses or partners who are victims of abuse – Canada.ca
When Abuse Doesn’t Bruise Toolkit
This YWCA Canada resource supports different ways of assisting survivors with invisible injuries caused by abuse. It provides:
- A summary of signs and symptoms of invisible injuries
- Opportunities for further learning and knowledge expansion
- Suggestions for potential community partners to connect with
- A user-facing resource: Understanding Your Brain and Your Safety
iHEAL App
A free, private, and secure app that helps Canadian women who have experienced abuse from a current or past partner find personalized ways to stay safe and be well. Providers can introduce the app or walk through it with women in person or virtually.
Learn more: iHEALapp.ca
Map to Independence: From Financial Violence to Financial Empowerment
A free 12-week program offered by YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin for women and those who identify as women aged 16+, designed to build personal and community resources for long-term success.
Next Session: January 5, 2025 to March 23, 2026
Schedule: Monday – Wednesday, 10 am -12 pm
For more information, registration, and referral: Map to Independence – YWCA St. Thomas – Elgin
