On December 6, a man named Marc Lépine carried out a horrific shooting at the École Polytechnique, a prominent engineering school in Montreal. Arriving at the campus, he was armed with a Ruger Mini-14 rifle and a hunting knife. The assault began in a classroom where Lépine ordered the men to leave, stating, 'You're all a bunch of feminists.' He then opened fire on the women, a sentiment reflecting his anti-feminist ideology. In total, he killed 14 young women and injured 10 others before turning the gun on himself. This unfortunate event took place in a classroom and later in a corridor of the school, showcasing a grievous act against women in an educational setting.

The aftermath of the massacre prompted widespread national outrage and grief in Canada. Vigils were held across the country, and discussions about violence against women became prominent within society. The tragedy was a pivotal moment that brought attention to the issues of misogyny and women's rights, leading to a reevaluation of policies and practices within educational institutions. Notably, the event has since been commemorated annually as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, designed to honor the victims and advocate for change in society's approach to gender equality.

The École Polytechnique massacre is a somber reminder of the prevalence of gender-based violence and the importance of promoting a safe environment for women. The incident not only took the lives of 14 promising individuals but also created a national discourse surrounding feminism and the urgent need for improved protections for women against violence. This event serves as a historical milestone that continues to shape policies and discussions about women's rights in Canada and beyond.