Kawartha Lakes honours the National Day of Mourning

Every year on April 28, the National Day of Mourning serves as a solemn reminder of the lives lost or forever changed due to workplace tragedies. It is a day to reflect, remember, and renew our collective commitment to ensuring a safer work environment for all.

According to the Association of Workers' Compensation Boards of Canada, 1,057 workplace fatalities were recorded in Canada in 2023. Among them were 29 young workers aged 15 to 24. In addition, 274,022 lost-time injury or disease claims were accepted, with 32,861 involving young workers. These numbers, as staggering as they are, represent only reported and accepted claims—meaning the actual impact is even greater.

Beyond statistics, every workplace tragedy leaves behind grieving loved ones, friends, and colleagues. Families are forever changed, and workplaces must grapple with the devastating consequences of these losses. Every worker deserves to go home safe at the end of the day.

Pause. Reflect. Remember. Renew.

On Monday, April 28 at 11am, we encourage you to pause to honour those who have died, suffered injuries, or become ill due to workplace hazards. Join us in taking a moment of silence to reaffirm our commitment to protecting workers and preventing future tragedies.

To commemorate this day:

• The Canadian flag will be lowered to half-mast at City Hall.
• Employees are encouraged to pause for a moment of silence.

Lindsay and District Labour Council – Memorial Service

The Lindsay and District Labour Council will be hosting a National Day of Mourning Service on Sunday, April 27 at 1pm at Victoria Park. There will be speeches delivered by invited dignitaries, laying of wreaths, and a respectful moment of silence to honour those who have been impacted by workplace tragedy or injury. All are welcome to attend.

Threads of Life

If you or a loved one have been affected by a workplace death, injury or illness, The Association for Workplace Tragedy Family Support, known as Threads of Life, may be able to help. They provide peer support, information, online and in-person events to learn healthy coping skills, and the chance to use your voice for prevention of future tragedies. Remember, you are not alone.

A Stark Reality

• Three Canadian workers will lose their lives today due to work-related causes.
• Hundreds will be seriously injured or develop an occupational illness.
• Thousands of families, workplaces, and communities will be affected.

On this National Day of Mourning, let’s honour those we have lost by strengthening our commitment to a safer, healthier future for all.

For more information on how you can commemorate the National Day of Mourning, please visit the WSIB Ontario Day of Mourning webpage.

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