OSHAWA – On Tuesday, April 28, 2020, the City of Oshawa will observe the National Day of Mourning.
Flags at City facilities will remain at half-mast and the City will lower the Day of Mourning Flag at City Hall in honour and remembrance of workers who have lost their lives, or suffered injury or illness on the job or due to a work-related tragedy.
“This year takes on even more meaning as we express our sincere gratitude to healthcare workers, first responders, grocery, transport and service staff helping to keep our community running, and all the other essential workers who continue to serve during the coronavirus pandemic,” said Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter. “Our thoughts are with the families and friends who have lost loved ones who were serving as front line workers and lost their lives to COVID-19. We express our sincere condolences.”
The Day of Mourning was officially recognized by the Ontario Provincial Legislature in 1988. In 1991, An Act Respecting a Day of mourning for Persons Killed or Injured in the Workplace passed through all stages of the House of Commons and the Senate. The Bill, which now proclaims April 28 of each year as National Day of Mourning, received Royal Assent on February 1, 1991 and is now law. The Day of Mourning is also officially recognized in many countries throughout the world and is dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives, or suffered injury or illness on the job or due to work-related hazards and occupational exposures.
For more information on the National Day of Mourning, visit the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety website at www.ccohs.ca/events/mourning.
