On December 6, 1989, 14 women at École Polytechnique de Montréal were killed in a gender-based act of violence. They were Geneviève Bergeron, Hélène Colgan, Nathalie Croteau, Barbara Daigneault, Anne-Marie Edward, Maud Haviernick, Barbara Klucznik Widajewicz, Maryse Laganière, Maryse Leclair, Anne-Marie Lemay, Sonia Pelletier, Michèle Richard, Annie St-Arneault and Annie Turcotte.

In 1991, the Parliament of Canada declared December 6th to be the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women.

This day provides communities and individuals with an opportunity to speak out against all forms of violence against women and its impact on victims, their families and friends.

In Ontario, candlelight vigils, memorial services, and other events are held throughout the province.