Teaching the lessons of L'École Polytechnique: Tools for classroom discussions

December 6 marks the 35^th anniversary of the murder of 14 women at L'École Polytechnique de Montréal in 1989.

Instructors interested in recognizing this event in their classes are invited to explore a new instructor handout prepared by the Centre for Educational Excellence (CEE) and the Sexual Violence Support and Prevention Office (SVSPO). The handout includes conversation prompts and activities designed to engage students in dialogue around gender-based violence.

According to SVSPO educator Paola Quirós-Cruz, classrooms play a crucial role in helping prevent future violence against women.

“Intergenerational dialogue in the classroom bridges the past and present, allowing students to learn from the experiences of those who came before them while empowering them to shape a better future. By sharing stories and reflecting on events like the tragedy at L'École Polytechnique de Montréal, we ensure that the voices of those affected are heard, and the lessons learned continue to inform the effort to end gender-based violence.”

CEE educational developer Bee Brigidi adds that doing so can help create a more inclusive learning environment. “As someone who lived near L'École Polytechnique, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of these conversations in fostering a safer and more inclusive learning environment. Universities must actively work to create safe spaces for all learners.”

View the SVSPO office’s National Day for Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women page for more information about events taking place across SFU to mark this day.