Day of Mourning – April 28
The National Day of Mourning holds a special significance for the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour (NSFL) and its 70,000 members as it provides a day to pay tribute to the countless workers injured or killed on the job.
The Halifax Day of Mourning Ceremony is at Province House (outside grounds) at 11 am on Sunday, April 28.
This day is a solemn reminder that workplace safety must remain a top priority for all employers and workers. For the Federation and its affiliated unions, the Day of Mourning is a day when we collectively call for action and continue advocating for safer working conditions, improved safety standards, and enhanced protection for workers across the province.
As a collective voice for workers in Nova Scotia, the Federation of Labour recognizes the importance of the National Day of Mourning in raising awareness about workplace safety issues. Since the Westray Bill was enacted in 1982, almost 700 workers have died at or because of work in our small province and it’s estimated that 1000 workers are killed on the job across Canada annually. Last year 18 workers in our province lost their life at or because of work.
The day serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the daily risks and hazards many workers face, particularly those in high-risk occupations.
Through events and ceremonies held on this day, the Federation of Labour and its members aim to promote a workplace safety culture and encourage employers to prioritize the health and well-being of their employees.
The National Day of Mourning is also a chance for the Federation to come together with its members and the broader community to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives or have been injured on the job.
By organizing and participating in events such as candlelight vigils, flag-raising ceremonies, and moments of silence, or ceremonies like this today, the Federation of Labour and its members pay their respects to those impacted by workplace accidents.
This day is a powerful reminder that every worker has the right to a safe and healthy work environment and must work together to prevent future tragedies.
The following ceremonies will be observed in Nova Scotia this year:
Annapolis Valley Labour Council
Day of Mourning Ceremony
Kentville Memorial Park — at Workers’ Memorial Stone Monument
Sunday, April 28, 2024 at 3:00pm
Contact: Janet Barteaux at Annapolis Valley Labour Council – email: avlcpresident@outlook.com
Nova Scotia Federation of Labour
Day of Mourning Ceremony
Nova Scotia Legislature (Province House) outside grounds
Sunday, April 28, 2024 at 11:00am
Contact: Joan Wark at NS Federation of Labour: 902-454-6735 / email: joan@nslabour.ca
Cape Breton District Labour Council
Day of Mourning Ceremony
Steelworkers and Pensioners’ Hall, 30 Inglis Street, Sydney
Sunday, April 28, 2024 at 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Contact: Natasha Hogan – email: natasha.hogan.cbdlc@hotmail.com
Pictou County Injured Workers Association
Day of Mourning Ceremony
Trenton Park, 119 Park Road, Trenton
Sunday, April 28, 2024 at 6:00pm
Contact: Mary Lloyd – email: marypciwa@eastlink.ca
