The National Day of Mourning, or Worker’s Mourning Day is observed annually on April 28th. This day is dedicated to those workers who have been killed, injured, or suffered illness due to workplace related hazards and occupational exposures. Traditionally, the Canadian flag flies at half-mast on Parliament Hill and all federal government buildings to honour those lives lost and the many affected by these tragedies.

This date was chosen in 1984, by the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) to coincide with the anniversary of Ontario’s first Worker’s Compensation Act. This date is officially observed in about 100 countries.

In 2022, there were 993 workplace fatalities in Canada including:

• 941 men
• 50 women
• 2 non-binary people
• As well as 33 young workers between the ages of 15 and 24
• 348,747 lost-time injury claims made nationally

In 2023, the workplace fatalities jumped to 1081…

Let us remember that these figures do not reflect every injury or incident including those not reported by the employer at the workplace, but a glimpse of our reality and the challenges we face to mitigate workplace accidents and injuries. This day is also a stark reminder of our collective responsibility to a safe and healthy workplace to further prevent more workplace related tragedies.  On the National Day of Mouring, we acknowledge the memory of these fallen workers and we encourage you to participate and or raise awareness on this day of mourning.

To our locals, please post the National Day of Mourning posters on your union boards and share this message with your members. You can find the poster here.

How to show support for National Day of Mourning:

• Participate in a Day of Mourning event in your community: List of Day of Mourningevents across Canada
• Moments of Silence: Employers and workers can pause for a moment of silence at 11 a.m. to remember those affected by workplace tragedies
• Commemorative Actions: Some people light candles, lay wreaths, wear commemorative pins, ribbons, or black armbands.
• Social Media Support: Organizations and individuals can share messages related to workplace safety on social media to raise awareness and prevent further injuries and loss of life. Change your MS background to day of mourning background which you can findhere
• Educate yourself: Update your health and Safety knowledge through training and webinar
• Share your story with others to promote public awareness

Resources

CCOHS: National Day of Mourning

Day of Mourning Ceremonies 2024 | Canadian Labour Congress

Day of Mourning | WSIB

PSAC’s Day of Mourning background

Threads of Life

In Solidarity,

Your CEIU Ontario Health, Safety and Security Committee