A Day of Mourning is coming up next week to honour workers who have been killed, injured, or suffered from work-related illness.

In 2022, 181 BC workers died from a workplace injury or disease, with each loss leaving behind devastated family and friends.

On Friday, April 28 at 10 a.m., everyone is welcome to a Day of Mourning ceremony and moment of silence at the Simms Park Pavilion, hosted by the City of Courtenay, WorkSafeBC, District Labour Council and CUPE 556.

The city’s occupational health and safety advisor, Paige Knapman says attending is a way for us to remember workers and families who have been affected by workplace injury or illness, and a reminder to all of us to make safety a priority all year long.

She says, “We need to stay vigilant each and every day. Every employee has a part to play in identifying potential hazards so we can prevent accidents before they happen.”

The Day of Mourning has been a national event since 1991.

For a list of other ceremonies around B.C., visit Day of Mourning BC.