In 1991 the Parliament of Canada declared Dec. 6 as the National Day of Remembrance and Action to End Violence Against Women.
It was on Dec. 6, 1989, a day known as the Montreal Massacre, that 14 women were systematically separated from the men and killed by one man at École Polytechnique de Montréal, for no other reason except they were women.
This year in Chatham-Kent, the Sexual Assault Crisis Centre, Domestic Violence Community Co-Ordinating Committee and Unifor Local 127 will commemorate the lives of those 14 women who were killed in Montreal at the W.I.S.H. Centre, on Dec. 6 at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free.
In addition to a screening of the documentary film, NO PLACE TO HIDE: The Rehtaeh Parsons Story, we will hear from 24-year-old Jacob Wells. Wells, the guest speaker for the event, knew Rehtaeh Parsons and the young men who took pictures while they sexually assaulted her, then posted the photos online. After two years of harassment and bullying that followed the sexual assaults, Rehtaeh ended her life.
The film reveals the far-reaching effects of cyberbullying and the extent of rape culture and victim blaming. Wells will share his unique insight and message with youth and adults and there will be time for discussion.
This film contains graphic content and may be upsetting and triggering for some. We recommend that elementary school-age children not attend, and youth under the age of 16 attend with parents or guardians.
The first 30 students 16 or older, or accompanied by a parent or guardian, will receive a $10 gift card to McDonalds. Free parking is available and refreshments will be provided.
