In 1984, the Canadian Labour Congress designated April 28 as the National Day of Mourning in Canada. Each year, Canadians pause to remember and honour those individuals who have died, been injured, or suffered illness in the workplace.
York University will mark the National Day of Mourning by lowering the flags on its Keele and Glendon campuses to half-mast from sunrise to sunset on April 28.
April 28 was selected because it coincides with Ontario’s first Workers’ Compensation Act, which was approved by government in 1914. The National Day of Mourning in Canada was brought into force on Feb. 1, 1991, by an Act of Parliament. Canadian flags on Parliament Hill and at Queen’s Park will fly at half-mast on April 28.
Injuries and deaths in the workplace continue to be a matter of grave concern across Canada. “This year, during this unparalleled time, we remember those brave frontline workers in healthcare, food and other essential services who are doing all they can to keep us safe, healthy, fed and secure during this pandemic,” said Sheila Cote-Meek, vice-president equity, people and culture at York University.
By lowering its flags to half-mast, York University affirms its commitment to the promotion of health and safety for all members of the University community and to the provision of a safe and healthy work and study environment.
To learn more about the day of mourning and to light a candle in memory of those who have given so much, visit National Day of Mourning, Health Safety & Employee Well-Being on yu link.