National Day of Mourning – 2017 Ceremonies

The National Day of Mourning for workers killed or injured on the job or who are suffering or have died as a result of occupational disease is being recognized with labour-sponsored ceremonies across British Columbia.

April 28th is the day that was chosen when federal legislation brought forward to Canada’s Parliament was passed in December 1990 – the Workers Mourning Day Act – after years of lobbying by the Canadian Labour Congress. The day, April 28th, is significant as on that day in 1914 the first comprehensive workers compensation act was passed.

Please attend a local labour-sponsored ceremony if you can:

New Westminster: On Friday April 28 starting at 11:00 am at the Westminster Pier Park, sponsored by the New Westminster & District Labour Council.

Vancouver: On Friday April 28 starting at 10:30 am at Hastings Park, 2901 East Hastings Street. Sponsored by the BC Federation of Labour, the Workers Compensation Board and the Business Council of BC.

In Victoria, members attending the CUPE BC Convention will be released from proceedings to participate in the Victoria Day of Mourning Ceremonies that will feature a memorial procession followed by a gathering on the lawn of the legislature.