“Because they were women.”
“Tomorrow marks the anniversary of the École Polytechnique massacre – a horrific, anti-feminist attack that claimed the lives of 14 women studying at École Polytechnique de Montréal and left another 10 women and 4 men injured.”
“This was an act of male supremacist violence, a deliberate attack targeting women simply for pursuing their education and their futures. These young women were taken from their families, their friends, and their communities solely because of their gender. Their loss is not only profoundly tragic and unjust, but also a stark reminder of the persistent inequality and violence women continue to face in our society.”
“My heart goes out to everyone impacted by this attack – the families and loved ones of the victims, the school community, and truly every woman standing today in a world still dominated by misogyny, boldly claiming their right to equity.”
“Whether it’s women making their mark in STEM, running for public office while facing scrutiny far beyond what their male counterparts endure, or young girls striving to see themselves reflected in positions of influence – know this: you belong. Your courage proves there must be a place for women at every table.
“As we listen to our neighbours to the south – and now the Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada – push to end DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) programs, I want women and gender-diverse individuals to remember this: you deserve equal opportunities. You deserve respect. And you carry the hope of the next generation, showing them that stepping forward and making themselves heard is not only possible, it’s necessary.”
“I call on government to support and invest in programs and groups that fight to end gender-based violence, commit to DEI in all levels of government, and to deliver a pay equity legislation that actually helps women and gender-diverse individuals.”