December 6 is a dark day in Quebec’s history. Since the Polytechnique massacre of 1989, when 14 women were murdered simply for being women in higher education, many Quebecers spend the day mourning collectively. In response to this day, the White Ribbon initiative was created to promote awareness and make a statement about violence against women.
Résidence-Elle is a women’s shelter in Huntingdon that offers a variety of resources for women experiencing abuse and violence. The executive assistant of Résidence-Elle, Anik DeRepentigny, shares that “The campaign for the white ribbons is the 12 days against violence against women. It starts November 25th and ends on the 6th of December.”
Résidence-Elle brings to light the realities of so many women. “Our goal is to make people aware of the cause of violence against women, and to avoid future femicides and murders of women as much as possible,” she says. The campaign honours both the women who have been killed, and the women who were in violent situations and survived.
On December 6 an activity will take place in Huntingdon featuring photographs of women holding a sign that says, “The next one is still alive” – that next victim is still living her life, unaware of what is to come. Men have also posed for these pictures with signs that read, “Not one more.” The photos will be on display from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 60 François-Cleyn Street in Huntingdon, along with information about Résidence-Elle and its services.
De Repentigny says that it is hugely important for Résidence-Elle to be visible in the community. Not only do they offer housing, but consultations, workshops, and more. “We need everyone to know that we exist. Just because you don’t have this experience doesn’t mean that you don’t have a friend, sister, colleague, etc. who does, or who will,” she explains. Awareness in the community means help will be more accessible for those who need it. “The more you hear about us, the more it will be a reflex,” she says.
The white ribbon initiative is not a fundraiser; however, Résidence-Elle is always happy to receive donations to help programming continue. They also access material donations. At the moment, they have a full team and are not looking for volunteers, but De Repentigny says, “We need people who are alert and know we exist. We need everyone to be a volunteer in that way, to promote us when needed.”
Résidence-Elle currently has buttons with white ribbons on them available. They encourage community members to get one to show support for the cause and raise awareness; call Stephanie at 450-264-2999, extension 224.