SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — White Ribbon Campaign

Honourable senators, today we are in the midst of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, an international campaign. Like every year, this 16-day period began on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, includes December 6, which marks the sad anniversary of the tragedy at Montreal’s École Polytechnique, and runs until December 10, Human Rights Day.

Violence against women is a reality that requires real action. Men and women across the country wear a white ribbon to honour those who have suffered and to support those who are still suffering in silence. These weeks of solidarity serve as a reminder of the importance of recognizing the courage of survivors, bereaved families and everyone, men and women, who fights every day for a world where equality and respect prevail.

This campaign also reminds us that meaningful steps have been taken. Laws have been passed here, actions have been initiated, and civil society remains highly mobilized. However, there is still much to be done. We must continue our efforts to ensure women’s equality and safety.

This vigilance is all the more necessary given that, as Simone de Beauvoir reminded us, all it takes is a political, economic, or religious crisis for women’s rights to be called into question. Nothing is ever definitively achieved, and we must remain vigilant throughout our lives. This is especially true when we see setbacks in women’s rights in certain countries that are not so far away.

I would like to take a moment to thank you, my colleagues. Thank you to all the senators here who are fighting for a more just, more equal, and violence-free society. Every day, I see your sincere commitment to building a future where everyone, regardless of their identity, can thrive without fear of hatred or violence.

In the Senate, combatting violence against women is not just a women’s issue. To our male colleagues, I sincerely thank you for understanding this from the outset. This is an issue that concerns us all. Thank you, senators, for being our allies in this essential cause.

The 16 days of activism will end, but our commitment will remain. Together, let’s continue to defend the rights and dignity of everyone in Canada.

Thank you, colleagues. Meegwetch.