2016What is the first permanent public art monument in Canada to honour survivors of sexual violence?
In Renfrew County, Ontario, the Countdown Public Art Project became Canada's first permanent public monument to honour survivors of sexual violence. Initiated by the Women's Sexual Assault Centre of Renfrew County and led by Toronto’s Red Dress Productions, this groundbreaking effort brought together artists, survivors, and local communities to design and build four linked pebble mosaic monuments. The main anchor monument in Eganville and its three "sister" monuments in Pembroke, Pikwàkanagàn First Nation, and Killaloe were unveiled in October 2016, involving the hands-on work of over 250 community members who set five tons of stone, pebble by pebble. This collaborative and deeply meaningful process not only created a lasting symbol of solidarity and healing but also marked a pivotal moment in Canadian history for public recognition and support of survivors.
