A yellow bird sitting in front of a cage.

National Day of Mourning


April 28 is observed as the National Day of Mourning in Canada to commemorate workers who have died, been injured or suffered illnesses due to work-related incidents. This day is also known as Workers’ Memorial Day or International Commemoration Day for Dead and Injured Workers.

The importance of this day lies in recognizing and raising awareness about the importance of workplace safety and the need for preventing accidents, injuries, and deaths in the workplace. It serves as a reminder that every worker has the right to a safe and healthy work environment, and employers have a duty to provide such an environment.

The National Day of Mourning also acknowledges the impact that workplace injuries and fatalities have on families, friends, and communities. It is an opportunity to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives or have been affected by work-related incidents and to renew the commitment to improve workplace safety.

The day is marked by events, such as candlelight vigils, moment of silence, and other memorial activities, to remember the workers who have lost their lives or suffered injuries in the workplace. The Canadian flag is flown at half-mast on this day as a sign of respect for the workers who have lost their lives.

The April 28 National Day of Mourning is an important day to raise awareness of the need for workplace safety, to remember those who have lost their lives, and to honor the contributions of workers in building the economy and society.

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