The flags on York University’s campuses will be lowered to half-mast on April 28 in recognition of the National Day of Mourning.
Each year on April 28, the National Day of Mourning (NDM) is held across Canada to remember those who have lost their lives or suffered injury or illness while on the job or due to a work-related tragedy. Dating back to April 28, 1984, the NDM also serves to commemorate the 70th anniversary implementation date of Ontario’s first Worker’s Compensation Legislation that came into effect in 1914. This day, also referred to as Workers’ Memorial Day, is now officially recognized in more than 100 countries worldwide.
Canadian flags on Parliament Hill and at Queen’s Park will fly at half-mast on April 28. There will also be an observation of a minute of silence at 11 a.m.
The flags at York University will be lowered to half-mast in honour of this event. Members of the University community are encouraged to observe a moment of silence. In addition to remembering and honouring those lives lost or injured, the National Day of Mourning is a day to renew individual and organizational commitments to improve health and safety in the workplace and prevent further injuries, illnesses and fatalities.
“In reflecting on this National Day of Mourning, York University encourages faculty, instructors, staff and students to be attentive to carrying out your work and education safely and of the importance of being mindful of ways to improve health and safety in your environment,” says Sheila Cote-Meek, vice-president equity, people and culture.
Community members are invited to watch this short video clip from Workplace Safety and Insurance Board commemorating those whose lives were lost or injured while on the job.
To learn more about the National Day of Mourning, please visit the following websites:
- Ministry of Labour
- Workplace Safety and Insurance Board
- Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
- Workers Health and Safety Centre
Additional information regarding National Day of Mourning and related events can be found on the Health, Safety and Employee Well-Being webpage.
York University employees have access to confidential employee counselling 24 hours per day, seven days per week from the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, available at www.workhealthlife.com, or by telephone at 1-844-880-9142 (English), 1-844-880-9143 (French) and 1-877-338-0275 (TTY), or downloading the “My EAP” app.