The annual Day of Mourning commemorates workers who have been killed or seriously injured as a result of their job. CUPE Local 2081 (Camosun College support staff) and the Victoria Labour Council will mark the day with a public ceremony on Camosun College’s Lansdowne campus on Friday, April 26.
According to WorkSafeBC, last year 131 B.C. workers died from a workplace injury or disease. Sixty-six deaths were from occupational disease (primarily related to historical asbestos exposure), and 65 resulted from traumatic injuries on the job.
“Even one death on the job is one too many,” says Keith Todd, President, CUPE Local 2081. “The Day of Mourning is a time to remember those who have lost their lives or been seriously injured while at work, and to renew our commitment to creating safe and healthy workplaces.”
The Canadian Labour Congress held the first National Day of Mourning ceremony in 1985, making Canada the first country to formally commemorate workers killed in the workplace. In 1991, the federal government passed the Workers Mourning Act, and the following year British Columbia proclaimed April 28 the Day of Mourning. Today, it is recognized in 100 countries around the world.
The CUPE Local 2081/Victoria Labour Council ceremony is one of 35 events taking place throughout the province.
Day of Mourning Ceremony
Date: Friday, April 26, 2019
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Camosun College, Lansdowne Campus (3100 Foul Bay Road)
Southeast corner of the Paul Building
There is also a ceremony for Camosun College staff and community on Interurban campus, same time, in front of the flag poll by the bus loop.
**Note that the official Day of Mourning is April 28. This recognition ceremony is taking place on the preceding weekday.
For more information, visit dayofmourning.bc.ca
