Hon. Éric Forest: Esteemed colleagues, I rise today to share a message of hope that is addressed in particular to all women who are survivors of assault and to those supporting them in their recovery. This ray of hope is inspired by the resilience of Geneviève Rioux, a wonderful young woman from Rimouski. She just published Survivaces, a collection of poetry that helped with her healing journey.

In April 2018, Geneviève was assaulted by a masked individual who broke into her home. After attempting to sexually assault her and stabbing her 18 times, he fled, leaving her for dead.

Nineteen years earlier, Geneviève and her family had lived through a similar trauma when her mother was assaulted in the family home while Geneviève and her little sister slept upstairs. Geneviève clung to life by digging deep. After recovering physically while continuing her studies in psychology, she threw herself into writing to vanquish her demons. Since the attack, Geneviève has turned to poetry to feel free again and regain control of her life.

Everything began to fall into place after she met novelist and poet David Goudreault, who gave her encouragement and is still mentoring her as a writer. Geneviève’s poetry collection, Survivaces, is a reflection on the cycle of violence that affects far too many women. Through her poetry, Geneviève hopes to give a voice to the suffering of victims of violence and their loved ones.

Although the author says her work has become a tool for justice, this does not absolve the legislator of responsibility. We need to do more to address violence against women. It is worth noting that the World Health Organization believes that a public health approach that seeks to limit the risk of violence against women and girls has been and still is key to preventing femicide.

Recently, Geneviève Rioux and David Goudreault jointly launched their poetry collections, Survivaces and Vif oubli, to give a voice and hope to those who are suffering.

Today, I wanted to tell Geneviève Rioux’s story. It is not easy to listen to, but let’s hope that it will advance this cause and give hope to survivors and those who support them. Thank you.