Marking the Day of National Mourning - April 28, 2021

Marking the Day of National Mourning - April 28, 2021

April 27, 2021 at 8:45 AM
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On April 28, Unifor 2002 joins workers across Canada to commemorate those injured or killed on the job.

The Canadian Labour Congress first declared the Day in 1984. It was only on April 28, 1991, that Canada recognized its first National Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured in the Workplace: a day where flags fly at half-mast and ceremonies are held to recognize the lives needlessly lost, and the tremendous suffering of those left in the wake of workplace tragedy. Since then, more than 100 countries across the world have also adopted the observance known widely as Workers’ Memorial Day.

As we reflect on the importance of the day, Unifor will also pause to remember members who lost their lives at work since last year’s Day of Mourning, including one of our own Local 2002 members:
  • Mike Patterson | District 352 Canadian North | December 7, 2020. 
Mike Patterson was a loving husband to Lisa, a beloved father to Justin and Jeffrey, a son to Doug and Raymonde Patterson, a brother to Robert and Richard, a friend and a co-worker to the many he touched in his lifetime. He lost his life at the age of 55 years after an unfortunate accident involving a fall while loading an aircraft. Mike will forever be remembered as a good, kind man with an unparalleled work ethic while always concerned for his colleagues’ well-being. He always took pride in all his endeavors whether personal or professional. A life was taken so tragically too soon, leaving behind so many loved ones.   Brother Patterson's memory will forever be remembered.

As we reflect today on those lives tragically lost, the importance of the day also brings to mind that all our lives have been affected this past year by the outbreak of COVID-19. This pandemic has brought to the forefront a collective solemn reminder that more needs to be done to protect the health and safety of workers as too many mourn the lives of those that have departed too soon.

In light of the global COVID-19 pandemic, a year of practicing social distancing, and following health restrictions to flatten the curve, we still need to fight for the living and mourn for the dead.

On April 28, we ask all our members to pause at 11:00 am to observe a moment of silence. 

Members are also welcomed to join with other Unifor staff and activists for the online commemoration on April 28:
  • When: April 28, 7pm ET
  • WhereClick here to register.
  • Who: Speakers will include Unifor National President Jerry Dias, Unifor Secretary-Treasurer Lana Payne, Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle, Ontario Regional Director Naureen Rizvi, Atlantic Regional Director Linda MacNeil, Assistant to the National President Joie Warnock, Director Health, Safety, and Environment Sari Sairanen.
  • What: There will be a moment of silence for the lost members, including a video tribute to lost members, and a call to action.
  
In Solidarity,
Sylvie Schmitt - Unifor 2002 National Health and Safety Coordinator
Anees Munshi - National Health and Safety Coordinator - Jazz Aviation Line Technical Services
Jeff Decker - National Health and Safety Coordinator - Jazz Technical Services
Wendy Brennan - National Health and Safety Coordinator - Jazz Aviation Customer and Aircraft Services