National Day of Mourning – Thursday April 28, 2022 – CUPW Shows Respect

Tuesday April 19 2022

The National Day of Mourning, held annually on April 28, is dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives or suffered injury or illness at work. This annual event was initiated by the labour movement 38 years ago to increase awareness of on-the-job injuries and fatal workplace accidents. This day of remembrance was officially recognized by the federal government in 1991, more than six years after it was launched by the Canadian Labour Congress in 1985. This year’s theme is “Work Shouldn’t Hurt: Choosing Health and Safety as a Fundamental Right and Principle at Work”.

Although the National Day of Mourning is now recognized in more than 100 countries, including Canada, there is still a lot to accomplish in order to improve the safety of workers.

The threat of COVID-19 is ongoing and has greatly changed the way we live and work.

Once again this year, gatherings organized by various worker organizations across the country will vary according to provincial and territorial public health restrictions, and local Day of Mourning events will be held either virtually or in person, in accordance with public health guidelines and restrictions.

For more information on the events planned in the different regions of the country, please visit the following Canadian Labour Congress webpage:

Day of Mourning Ceremonies 2022 – Canadian Labour Congress

As in previous years, we have asked the Corporation to fly the Canadian flag at half-mast and observe a minute of silence during every shift on April 28. CPC has agreed to this request and has advised us that a national communication regarding the Day of Mourning will be sent shortly to all managers across the country.

On this National Day of Mourning, it is important that, wherever we are, we take the time to remember our brothers and sisters who died, suffered injuries or became disabled at work. We must all commit to continuing the struggle to force employers and governments to fulfill their obligation to make every workplace a safe and healthy one. We must also continue seeking stronger health and safety standards and protection, and better enforcement in our workplaces.