Notice Board

April 28 National Day of Mourning

Every year on April 28th, Canada observes the National Day of Mourning to remember those who have lost their lives, suffered injury or illness on the job, or experienced a work-related tragedy. It is not just a day to remember and honour those lives lost or injured due to a workplace tragedy, but also a day to collectively renew our commitment to improve health and safety in the workplace and prevent further injuries, illnesses, and deaths.

We encourage all members of the university community to support or attend an event, or to observe a moment of silence at 10 a.m. on April 28th.

History

In 1991, eight years after the day of remembrance was launched by the Canadian Labour Congress, the Parliament of Canada passed the Workers Mourning Day Act making April 28 an official Day of Mourning. Today the Day of Mourning has since spread to more than 100 countries around the world and is recognized as Workers’ Memorial Day, and as International Workers' Memorial Day by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).

Beyond the statistics

According to the Association of Workers' Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), in 2023 there were 1,057 workplace fatalities recorded in Canada. Among these deaths were 29 young workers aged 15 to 24.

Add to these fatalities the 274,022 accepted claims for lost time due to a work-related injury or disease, including 32,861 from workers aged 15 to 24, and the fact these statistics only include what is reported by the compensation boards, there is no doubt the total number of workers impacted is even greater.

Plus, with each worker tragedy there are loved ones, family members, friends and co-workers who are directly affected, left behind, and deeply impacted – their lives also forever changed.