April 26, 2016 at 8:00 AM
On April 28th, most of us will be at our place of employment, going about our day and focusing on the tasks which make up our regular work day. For many of us this will be an ordinary day just any other filled with routines, responsibilities and enjoyment. But for others, it may not be so ordinary. All too often we are reminded just how fragile our work-life balance can be when an occupational accident affects a colleague, a friend, family member or even our own life. Many of us never think to ask; shouldn’t work be safe?
More than twenty years ago the Canadian Labour Congress declared April 28th the National Day of Mourning for workers injured or killed on the job. Every year since, unions, labour councils, families and community partners gather by the thousands to 'mourn the dead'. What began through the efforts of Canada's labour movement is now observed in more than 80 countries.
This year will mark the 32nd anniversary of the National Day of Mourning. Over the years, members of many Unifor Locals – including members at Local 2002 – have been affected by loss as fellow brothers and sisters who have lost their lives while in the workplace. No one can escape the emotional and often devastating impact that comes from a workplace trauma. The National Day of Mourning is not only a day to reflect and remember those individuals who have lost their lives, but it is also a time to renew the commitment to improving health and safety in the workplace; to prevent further deaths, injuries and diseases from work.
On Friday, a fellow Air Canada brother, 24 year old Ian Henry Pervez, was killed while working an evening shift at Toronto’s Pearson airport. The accident occurred when the luggage cart he was driving inadvertently rolled over and threw Pervez from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene. We are all saddened to hear of this tragedy and send our deepest sympathies to the Pervez family.
This Thursday, the Canadian flag on Parliament Hill will fly at half-mast; workers will light candles, don ribbons and black armbands and observe a moment of silence at 11:00am. Businesses are asked to participate by declaring April 28 a Day of Mourning and to strive to prevent workplace deaths, illnesses and injuries.
Let’s remember those who have lost their lives and demand safer workplaces for all working people.
Please check with your local labour council to determine where a Day of Mourning event is being held in your area.
In solidarity,
Ian Bennie – Unifor 2002 National Health and Safety Coordinator
Anees Munshi – Unifor 2002/Jazz Technical Services, Health and Safety Coordinator
Wendy Brennan – Unifor 2002/Jazz CSA-ACS, Health and Safety Coordinator
Cheryl Robinson – Unifor Local 2002 President
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