I say their names
because I have a daughter.
I say their names
because I am human.
I say their names
because I remember.

Anne-Marie Edward
Barbara Daigneault
Anne-Marie Lemay
Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz
Annie St-Arneault
Geneviève Bergeron
Maryse Leclair
Hélène Colgan
Nathalie Croteau
Sonia Pelletier
Annie Turcotte
Maud Haviernick
Maryse Laganière
Michèle Richard

December 6, 1989.
École Polytechnique.
The Montreal Massacre.
   This is a sacred day.
   Just as we pause on November 11, to pay respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our way of life in times of war, we must stop whatever we are doing later this day to pause and reflect on those whose lives were taken away, on this day.
   There must be silence.
   These women did not volunteer or ask for this violence. They lived with it every day, as many do now. Sadly.
   My heart goes out to the families, friends, partners, and loved ones who grieve for these significant women.
   I grieve with you.

deep peace

12/06/2020                                               j.g.l.