Pause. Reflect. Remember. Renew.
The National Day of Mourning is a day we pay our respects to and remember the workers who have been killed, injured or suffered illness as a result of work-related incidents. In 2021 we lost 178 people to workplace illness or injury in Alberta.
It is a somber reminder to renew our commitment to preventing future workplace tragedies. On this Day of Mourning, we come together to honour and demonstrate our commitment to workplace safety for our UFA family, our members and customers as we all have a shared responsibility to take of one another and make it home safe.
Traditionally the Canadian flag has flown at half-mast today on Parliament Hill and all federal government buildings. Employers and workers have observed the National Day of Mourning by lighting candles, laying wreaths, or wearing commemorative pins, ribbons, or black armbands.
Whether working remotely or onsite, organizations, communities and individuals are encouraged to hold or support an event, or to simply observe a moment of silence at 11:00 am on April 28.
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 Organization (ILO) and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).
More information about the National Day of Mourning can be found on the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety website.
