In 2023, 175 BC workers died from a workplace injury or disease, with each loss leaving behind devastated family and friends. To help raise awareness of the importance of workplace safety, local organizations are coming together for an annual event that honours workers who have been killed, injured, or suffered from work-related illness.

On Friday, April 26 at 10 a.m., everyone is welcome to a Day of Mourning ceremony and moment of silence at the Simms Park Pavilion, hosted by the City of Courtenay, WorkSafeBC, Comox Valley Transition Society, and CUPE 556.

“Putting health and safety at the forefront of work activities is a necessary part of preventing injury and work-related tragedy,” said Rosa Caird, occupational health and safety advisor for the City of Courtenay. “Workplace injuries and tragedies change the lives of whole families and sometimes affect the entire community”.

The Day of Mourning has been a national event since 1991.

The Canadian Labour Congress first recognized the Day of Mourning in 1984. In 1990, this day became a national observance with the passing of the Workers Mourning Day Act, and on April 28, 1991, the federal government officially proclaimed the National Day of Mourning.

For more information on the Day of Mourning ceremony in Courtenay, please contact Rosa Caird at rcaird@courtenay.ca.

For a list of other ceremonies around B.C., visit www.dayofmourning.bc.ca.