December 6 memorial candle making and sale

Each year, the WRC handcrafts candle pairs to be sold during the 16 Days of Activism between International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women (Nov. 25) and International Human Rights Day.

Learn more about the 16 Days of Activism

The making of the candles to commemorate the National Day of Remembrance and Action Against Violence Against Women (Dec. 6) is a tradition initiated in 1987 by the Canadian Voice of Women who began making candles to promote peace. These candles are made to remember the lives of the 14 women who died tragically on December 6, 1989 at L'École Polytechnique in Montreal, and to inspire us to do what is within our power to bring an end to violence against women.

three students sit around a table with candles in front of them

Candle making

Help end gender-based violence by participating in the WRC’s candle making fundraiser.

Join us for the annual beeswax candle making to commemorate the lives of the 14 women who were murdered on December 6, 1989 at Ecole Polytechnique in Montreal. 

Candles will be sold individually for $4 or $8 for a pair. Drop in anytime during the following days and times at the Women’s Resource Centre (MSC 482):

  • Monday, Nov. 18, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Nov. 19, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Nov. 20, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  • Friday, Nov. 22, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Participants will have the opportunity to take home their first rolled candle. 

candles on a table in dim lighting

Candle sales

Each December, you can purchase handmade, 100% beeswax candles made by members of the university community. The candles come in burgundy, evergreen, plum and honey. 

Candle Price: $4 for one or $8 for a pair

Candle sales take place in November & December.

Purchase candles in person by dropping by our space Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Starting Nov. 18.

Candle Sale Tables on Campus

  • Wednesday, Nov. 27 | 10 a.m.— 3 p.m. @ MacEwan Student Centre (Near Dairy Queen)
  • Tuesday, Dec. 3 | 10 a.m.— 3 p.m. @ Science B
  • Thursday, Dec. 5 | 10 a.m.— 3 p.m. @ TBA
  • Friday, Dec. 6 | 12 - 1 p.m. @ December 6 Ceremony (Location TBA) 

Payment method: cash, debit, credit, or cheque (addressed to University of Calgary)

Place a candle order