The National Day of Mourning, held annually on April 28, was officially recognized by the federal government in 1991, eight years after the day of remembrance was launched by the Canadian Labour Congress. The Day of Mourning has since spread to over 80 countries around the world.
The numbers tell the story. In 2013, 902 workplace deaths were recorded in Canada. This number represents 2.47 deaths every single day. In the 21 year period from 1993 to 2013, 18,941 people lost their lives due to work-related causes (an average of 902 deaths per year).
On April 28, the Canadian flag on Parliament Hill will fly at half-mast. Workers will light candles, don ribbons and black armbands and observe moments of silence. You are asked to participate by recognizing April 28 as a Day of Mourning and by making efforts to prevent workplace deaths, illnesses and injuries.
The OPSEU Disability Rights Caucus is distributing the attached poster to commemorate this annual event, in the hope that the annual observance of this day will strengthen the resolve to establish safe conditions in the workplace, and prevent injuries and deaths. As much as this is a day to remember the dead, it is also a call to protect the living. Please consider displaying this posters in a prominent location.
If you have any questions or would like additional posters, please do not hesitate to contact Equity Officer Tim Vining at [email protected] or at telephone ext. 8679.
Download a copy of the poster: Day of mourning poster.pdf