Toronto – April 19, 2024 – Every year on April 28, communities across Canada gather to observe the National Day of Mourning. This solemn occasion serves as a reminder of the lives lost or injured due to workplace accidents, illnesses, or fatalities. It is a day of reflection, advocacy, and solidarity with workers, their families, and their unions.

In 1984, the Canadian Labour Congress established April 28th as the National Day of Mourning in Canada to remember and honour those who have died, been injured or suffered illness in the workplace.

The date was chosen in 1984, when the Canadian Labour Congress proclaimed the Day to coincide with the 70th anniversary of the day the first Ontario Worker’s Compensation Act was approved by the government (1914). The Day of Mourning was enshrined in national legislation by an Act of Parliament on February 1, 1991.

Each year, thousands of Canadian workers are injured or killed while on the job. Behind these statistics are real people – mothers, fathers, siblings, and friends – whose lives are forever altered by tragedy. The National Day of Mourning is a time to remember these individuals, to honour their memory, and to stand in solidarity with their loved ones. It’s a reminder that every worker deserves to return home safely at the end of their workday.

The day also serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about workplace safety and the importance of prevention. By shining a spotlight on hazards and risks that workers face, and holding employers accountable for ensuring safe working conditions, advocating for stronger safety regulations and enforcement, we can strive toward a future where every workplace is safe and every worker is protected.