Surrey Schools honours fallen workers on Day of Mourning

Every year, April 28 marks the International Day of Mourning, commemorating workers who have lost their lives to work-related incidents or occupational disease.

In recognition, Surrey and White Rock schools and district buildings will fly their flags at half-mast, in remembrance of workers who have been killed and injured on the job. In 2021, 161 workers in B.C. lost their lives to workplace injury or disease.

“Once again, we take this day to remember those who have lost their lives at work and emphasize our ongoing support and commitment to safe workplaces,” said Laurie Larsen, Chair of the Surrey Board of Education. “The health and safety of our students and staff remains of utmost priority for the district, and this day serves as a reminder of that commitment.”

At the April board meeting, Sheila Raikadroka, an executive board member with the New Westminster & District Labour Council, gave a presentation about the Day of Mourning, noting the pandemic has broadened the societal view of workplace injuries to include ailments beyond traumatic physical accidents.

“Our purpose in recognizing the Day of Mourning has always been two-fold: to remember workers killed and injured on the job, and to rededicate ourselves to preventing future injuries through education,” said Raikadroka. “This year, we’re adding a third priority that speaks to this new widespread understanding of health and safety, which echoes the campaign of the Canadian Labour Congress: ‘Work shouldn’t hurt.’”

This year, Day of Mourning BC will host an online moment of silence at 10:30 a.m. April 28, with a video recognizing those we've lost. The ceremony will go live on YouTube here.

For more information, visit Day of Mourning BC or the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety.