Dying for the Job
Canadian workers are dying. Workplace accidents and occupationally related diseases are cheating them of their lives. Still others are seriously injured and permanently disabled on the job each year. Last year, in Ontario alone, some 300 workers were killed, 1.2 million suffered compensable injuries and thousands died from occupationally related diseases. In recognition of these ongoing losses and injuries, the Canadian Labour Congress declared April 28 labour's official, national "Day of Mourning".
Persistent lobbying by local labour activists prompted many municipalities and some employers to recognize April 28 as an official "Day of Mourning". To commemorate the day, flags are lowered to half mast and one minute of silence is observed at 11:00 a.m. Although not all municipalities or employers acknowledge the occasion, strong petitioning and lobbying by labour groups is ensuring the day receives wider recognition each year.
The CLC's ultimate goal is to end the carnage through the enforcement of stronger health and safety regulations in the workplace. Until that time, the CLC is determined to have April 28 recognized nationwide as the day on which all Canadians mourn the loss of their fellow workers.
- Read silently.
- Discuss.
- Assisted reading.