A day of mourning ceremony will be held in Courtenay to honour workers on the job and raise awareness for workplace safety.
The ceremony will happen on April 28 at 10 a.m. at the Simms Park Pavilion. Joining the ceremony will be WorkSafeBC, District Labour Council and CUPE 556, according to a release from the city.
City of Courtenay occupational health and safety advisor Paige Knapman says the day will help raise awareness about the importance of workplace safety.
“The Day of Mourning is a time for us to remember fallen workers, and also to reinforce the importance of safety on the job,” said Knapman. “It’s a reminder to all of us that we need to stay vigilant, minimize risks, and speak up if we think something isn’t safe.”
The day of mourning has been a national event since 1991. It was recognized by the Canadian Labour Congress in 1984 and proclaimed the National Day of Mourning by the federal government on April 28, 1991, according to the release.
The city encourages everyone to come and attend the ceremony.
“We encourage individuals and organizations to join us at the Day of Mourning ceremony in honour of all workers and families who have been affected by workplace accidents or illnesses,” added Knapman.
More details about the day, including a list of ceremonies around B.C. can be found at www.dayofmourning.bc.ca
