2006-2007

News Release

REF NO.: 84

SUBJECT:

DATE: December 1, 2006

To coincide with the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women by the federal government, Memorial University of Newfoundland will hold a solemn ceremony on its St. John’s campus next week.
            Memorial’s Dec. 6 Vigil ceremonies will also commemorate the tragic anniversary of 1989’s Montreal Massacre when 14 women were killed at l’École Polytechnique in Quebec, all the while focusing attention on the broader issue of violence against women.
            The vigil is organized annually by Memorials’ Sexual Harassment Office.
This year’s event will include special readings as well as a student candlelight procession.
            The vigil will be emceed by Dr. Noreen Golfman, associate dean of Graduate Studies and professor of English.
            Prof. Jean Guthrie, co-ordinator of Memorial’s Women’s Studies program, and Steven McLean, executive director of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland and Labrador, will offer reflections on the importance of the vigil.
            The ceremony will also include performances by the MUN Chamber Choir and School of Music student flutist Melissa Dioron.
             Memorial’s vigil takes place on Wednesday, Dec. 6, at 7 p.m. in the Engineering Building, room EN-2006.
            Free parking will be available in all lots marked 16 or 16A, and a reception will follow the event.
            Media agencies are encouraged to send representatives to this year’s ceremony.

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