Caution: This article covers sensitive topics including school violence, sexual assault, and suicide.
When Trina Costantini-Powell pondered what to showcase in the 1970s exhibit for her Ottawa high school’s centennial celebration, she initially considered themes like Nixon, Trudeau, and the Vietnam War.
However, during a gathering of Glebe Collegiate Institute alumni in the school’s archive, they stumbled upon a hidden gem behind a curtain: a framed pastel portrait of a young woman, Kim Rabot, whose life was tragically cut short before her graduation.
In October 1975, at just 17 years old, Rabot became the first victim in a series of harrowing events that CBC is exploring in an ongoing four-part series.
Rabot was raped and murdered by a fellow student at St. Pius X High School, who then proceeded to shoot his religion class, fatally injuring another student, Mark Hough, before taking his own life.
The aftermath of these heinous acts reverberated through the schools and the nation, leading to the implementation of Canada’s firearms acquisition certificate system two years later.
Despite the emergence of stories from some survivors of the shooting over time, Rabot’s narrative remained overshadowed by the larger tragedy of Canada’s second high school shooting.
Al Hough, cousin and close friend of victim Mark Hough, expressed deep sympathy for Kim Rabot and the enduring anguish her family and friends face as the 50th anniversary looms.
Despite the overshadowing of Rabot’s story, there are individuals in Ottawa who have quietly ensured her memory endures.
For instance, Fred May, a friend and classmate of Rabot’s at Glebe Collegiate Institute, initiated a fund in Rabot’s name that annually awards recipients who embody qualities like team spirit and dedication.
Each year, during the school’s commencement, Rabot’s portrait is prominently displayed, allowing her to be remembered and honored by the community.
Through these initiatives, Rabot’s spirit remains alive, and her legacy is commemorated in the face of tragedy.
This year, on the 50th anniversary of her passing, the school bestowed two awards in Rabot’s honor, ensuring that her memory continues to be cherished.
As the anniversary approaches, Rabot’s sister plans to hold a Jesuit mass to remember not only her sister but also Mark Hough and Robert Poulin, emphasizing the power of forgiveness and unity in the face of tragedy.
This article is part of a series.
Part 1 delved into the events of Oct. 27, the subsequent coroner’s inquest, the gun control debate, and the impact on the Poulin family. Read it here.
Part 3, scheduled for Oct. 23, will pay tribute to Mark Hough.
Part 4 focuses on the survivors of the St. Pius X High School shooting. Read the story here.
If you or someone you know needs help, resources are available:
- Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988.
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868. Text 686868. Live chat counseling on their website</