RCMP officers from the Lake Cowichan detachment, with the help of a local business, have strung purple lights on a tree to commemorate the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
“Yesterday [Dec. 6] marked the 31st anniversary of the senseless murders of 14 young women at Polytechnique in Montréal. Lighting this tree is a visible symbol that we have not, and will not forget and that we continue to stand up against all gender based violence in our community,” Corp. David Motely of the Lake Cowichan detachment said.
The lights will remain lit at the front of the Lake Cowichan detachment on Stanley Avenue throughout the holiday season and to mark the remaining days of the 16 days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an international campaign that runs from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10.
When RCMP approached the city for assistance, township employee Keepy Johal jumped at the opportunity and sought assistance from a local arborist, Lyle Mullin, who volunteered his time and equipment and together, the lights were strung.
The colour purple symbolizes courage, honour, and healing and has a long history of being used as a symbol by those seeking justice.
Throughout this week, officers from the Lake Cowichan RCMP will be wearing purple masks as a visible show of support.
