On December 6, the University of Toronto will fly its flags at half-mast across all three campuses to observe Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

The commemoration of the tragic events at l’École Polytechnique de Montréal honours the lives of 14 women who were murdered in 1989. It is a stark reminder that misogyny, sexism, transphobia and gender-based violence are a reality for many women today. This is also a chance for our community to consciously consider how we can continue to address and eliminate the many factors that perpetuate gender-based violence, and in particular, towards transgender, Black, Indigenous and other racialized groups of women.

At the University of Toronto, our Sexual & Gender Diversity Office, Community Safety Office, the tri-campus Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centres and our various equity offices are key drivers of ongoing initiatives that address gender-based discrimination and violence, its intersectional manifestations, and provide support, services and education to our community.

We all share responsibility for building a positive and safe environment for all women at the University of Toronto, and to renew our commitment to ensuring an intentionally inclusive and equitable community in which to work and learn.

There are several commemorative events that will take place across our campuses on December 6. I encourage you to take the time to observe this day of remembrance and remind our community that there are a variety of safety and support resources available to all members of the University of Toronto should you require assistance.

Professor Kelly Hannah-Moffat
Vice-President, Human Resources & Equity
University of Toronto