The Big Story

What's changed 35 years after the Montreal Massacre?

Dec 6, 2024

In this engaging discussion, Nathalie Provost, a survivor of the École Polytechnique massacre and a tireless advocate for gun control in Canada, reflects on the tragedy’s enduring impact. She shares her haunting memories of that day and the emotional weight of remembering the victims. Nathalie emphasizes the critical need for stricter gun laws and addresses the ongoing challenge of violence against women, urging listeners to recognize the urgency of this issue as Canada approaches elections.

23:53

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Nathalie Provost

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Quick takeaways

The Montreal Massacre not only exposed the severe issue of misogyny in society but also catalyzed legislative action against violence towards women in Canada.

Survivor Nathalie Provost's advocacy for stricter gun control laws highlights ongoing concerns about firearm accessibility and its connection to women's safety.

Deep dives

The École Polytechnique Massacre: A Dark Chapter

The École Polytechnique massacre was a tragic event that claimed the lives of 14 women, highlighting the extreme violence and misogyny that persists in society. The shooter, driven by his hatred for women, specifically targeted female students, marking a significant moment in Canada's history. This brutality shocked the nation and galvanized movements against violence towards women, ultimately prompting legislative action and the creation of national plans to address these issues. Despite the progress made since then, violence against women remains an epidemic in Canada, signifying the need for continued awareness and action.

Intro

2min

Reflections on the 35th Anniversary of the Montreal Massacre

2min

Reflections on the Polytechnic Tragedy

12min

Advocacy for Gun Control in Canada Post-Montreal Massacre

5min

Empowering Women in Engineering: A Tribute and Call for Change

3min

On December 6, 1989 a lone gunman walked into Montreal’s École Polytechnique and began shooting female students. The young man was motivated by his misogynistic hatred for women. He targeted his victims because they were women.

By the time his rampage was over, 14 young women lay dead.

It was a tragedy that shook the nation to its core. Never before had our country seen such horrific violence targeted at young women.

The Polytechnique shooting galvanized the women's movement in Canada and put a national focus specifically on violence against women.

Parliament went on to create a national action plan on combating violence against women.

Every year on December 6 we mark the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

Still, violence against women remains an epidemic in this country.

Host David Smith speaks with Ecole Polytechnique survivor Nathalie Provost about her memory of that terrible day and her work advocating for stricter gun control laws in Canada.

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