April 28 is National Day of Mourning
April 27, 2023 at 8:54 AM
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 Workers' Day of Mourning was created by CUPE members over 40 years ago, to remember those who lost their lives on the job and to inspire workers rights to prevent further tragedies. It was first observed in 1984 and 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.
And sadly, this year, three Winnipeg civic employees have died as a result of a work-related illness.
It is also with regret we report four CUPE members from across the country have died over the past year as a result of their work.
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 and Civic Unions/Associations- Annual Workers Day of Mourning Ceremonies - Friday, April 28, 2023
Main Ceremony
9:00 am City Hall Court Yard or Mayor's Foyer (if inclement weather)
9:00 am City Hall Court Yard or Mayor's Foyer (if inclement weather)
- Coffee Reception to follow in the Mayor's Foyer
Worksite Ceremonies:
- 7:30 am - 960 Thomas Ave.
- 7:30 am - 552 Plinquet St.
- 10:30 am - 1155 Pacific Ave.
SAFE Workers of Tomorrow - Leaders' Walk
Date: Friday, April 28
Time: 11:30 a.m.
Where: Union Centre (Broadway at Smith Street, Winnipeg) traveling down Broadway to Memorial Park
MFL Day of Mourning Ceremony
Date: Friday, April 28
Time: 12:00 Noon
Where: Memorial Park, Winnipeg
CUPE Resources:
CUPE has many resources to help educate health and safety committees and raise awareness in the general membership. We encourage all CUPE members to use the Day of Mourning as a way of drawing attention to these important resources.
