Remembering the Victims of the Polytechnique Massacre 35 Years Later

On a cold winter day, dignitaries gathered at Polytechnique Montréal’s main campus to honor the memory of the 14 women who lost their lives in a tragic anti-feminist attack 35 years ago. Among those paying their respects was Louis Courville, the interim director of the school at the time of the massacre.

Reflecting on the solemn occasion, Courville, now 90 years old, expressed his gratitude for the continued remembrance of the tragic event. “It’s a somber reminder of a very sad and horrible day,” he said.

The names of the women who perished on that fateful day in 1989 were read aloud, a poignant reminder of the lives cut short by senseless violence. These women, including Geneviève Bergeron, Hélène Colgan, and Barbara Daigneault, were bright students and dedicated employees whose potential was tragically snuffed out.

The perpetrator of the attack, Marc Lépine, took his own life after the rampage, leaving behind a trail of devastation and heartbreak. His actions were fueled by a deep-seated misogyny and hatred towards feminists, a stark reminder of the dangers of extremist ideologies.

As the ceremony unfolded, Polytechnique Montréal president Maud Cohen emphasized the importance of learning from the past to create a more inclusive and equitable future. “We must ensure that all individuals, especially women, feel safe, welcomed, and empowered to pursue their dreams,” Cohen stated.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also weighed in on the anniversary, highlighting the need to combat gender-based violence and discrimination. “The memory of the 14 women who lost their lives serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women’s rights,” Trudeau remarked.

The commemoration culminated in a symbolic gesture as 14 beams of light illuminated the sky above Mount Royal, each representing a victim of the massacre. This year, a 15th beam was added to honor all women who have been victims of violence and oppression.

As the nation mourns the lives lost on that tragic day, it is a time for reflection, remembrance, and a renewed commitment to creating a more just and equal society for all.

May the memory of the Polytechnique victims serve as a beacon of hope and a call to action for a future free from violence and discrimination.