National Day of Mourning – April 28, 2025

April 28 is the National Day of Mourning. A day to honour and remember those who have lost their lives, suffered injuries, or become ill because of their work. On this day, we reflect and reaffirm our commitment to fight for workplace health and safety.

Together with Canada’s union community, under the theme “Shining a Light on Invisible Injuries and Hazards”, this year the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) is drawing attention to the hidden hazards in our workplaces, those we cannot see but which harm workers every day. From psychological injuries such as stress and trauma, to chronic pain and illnesses caused by exposure to chemicals or poor air quality, these invisible hazards impose urgent action.

As we come together to mourn the dead and fight for the living, we also raise our voices to demand that all levels of government and employers:

• Launch public awareness campaigns on invisible workplace injuries and hazards.
• Legislate strong air quality standards for indoor workplaces.
• End WHMIS consumer product exemptions and ensure chemical safety training.
• Improve coverage for work-related injuries including chronic and psychological injuries.
  
  

According to the Association of Workers' Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), in 2023, there were 1,057 workplace fatalities recorded in Canada. Among these deaths were 29 young workers aged 15-24.

Add to these fatalities the 274,022 accepted claims for lost time due to a work-related injury or disease, including 32,861 from workers aged 15-24, and the fact these statistics only include what is reported and accepted by the compensation boards, there is no doubt the total number of workers impacted is even greater.

And it’s not just these numbers on which we need to reflect. With each worker tragedy there are loved ones, family members, friends and co-workers who are directly affected, left behind, and deeply impacted – their lives also forever changed.

For a deeper look at the stats, visit the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC) website at:

KSM – Year at a Glance | AWCBC

On Monday, April 28, 2025, workers and families across Canada will take part in ceremonies and gatherings to commemorate the National Day of Mourning. We call all members and locals to:

• Fly the Canadian flag at half-mast;
• Observe a moment of silence;
• Attend or organize local commemorative events;
• Share stories and awareness materials on social media.

For a list of events across the country visit the Canadian Labour Congress website:

https://canadianlabour.ca/events/day-of-mourning-ceremonies-2025

AN INJURY TO ONE IS AN INJURY TO ALL!

Let us honour those that we lost by pushing for change and keep fighting for the living!

In solidarity,