Today’s National Day of Mourning for those killed or injured in the workplace will look very different.
The St. John’s and District Labour Council holds a ceremony each year in the lobby of Confederation Building, but that assembly is not possible due to public health restrictions.
Instead, a virtual candlelight vigil was held at noon.
The flags at Confederation Building have been lowered to half-mast today in recognition of the #NationalDayOfMourning. The day is set aside annually to remember and honour those who lost their lives or were injured due to a workplace tragedy. https://t.co/f7vlGPL1WC pic.twitter.com/UgGJ7XP3W7
— Government of NL (@GovNL) April 28, 2020
Flags are flying at half staff at Confederation Building in memory. The Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour says events are also being held in Corner Brook and Labrador West.
St. John’s and District Labour Council President Ashley Carew says 26 people lost their lives last year due to workplace incidents and occupational illness. That number, according to Carew, is on par with previous years.
The Council is encouraging residents to post photos to social media with the hashtags #WorkersDayofMourning and #StopthePandemicAtWork.
Photos are being shared in the St. John’s and District Labour Council Facebook group at this link.
