April 28 is National Day of Mourning
April 25, 2022 at 7:51 PM
April 28 marks the National Day of Mourning for workers who have died, been injured or suffered illness as a result of their work.
The Day of Mourning was created by CUPE members and was first observed in 1984. It is now recognized in more than 100 countries worldwide.
Every year in Canada, nearly 1,000 workers don’t make it home to their loved ones because they die on the job. One injury or one death is one too many in the workplace.
Since 1978, sixteen Local 500 members have died due to a workplace accident or illness. And sadly, this year, three civic employees have died as a result of a work-related illness.
It is also with regret that we report five CUPE members across Canada died on the job over the past year. And sadly, the names of four retired firefighters have been added to the City’s honour roll this year. They died as a result of a workplace related illness.
Workplace accidents and illness are preventable. Together, as employers, unions, political leaders and government, we must all have a permanent commitment to workplace health and safety. Our Health and Safety Committees need to continue the important work they do in the prevention of accidents and injuries.
And most importantly, every one of us, regardless of the work being done, must be vigilant regarding our own safety, and the safety of those we work with.
Let’s all do our part so that today is not a day another worker dies on the job.
Day of Mourning Ceremonies/Events:
City of Winnipeg: Annual Workers Day of Mourning Video
Where: https://www.winnipeg.ca/hr/DayOfMourning.stm
SAFE Workers of Tomorrow - Leaders' Walk
Date: Thursday, April 28, 2022
Time: 11:30 a.m.
Where: Union Centre (Broadway at Smith Street, Winnipeg) traveling down Broadway to Memorial Park
MFL Day of Mourning Ceremony/Unveiling of Workers' Memorial
Date: April 28
Time:12:00 Noon
Where: Memorial Park, Winnipeg
