Remember the Canary this April 28th

April 28 is the Day of Mourning, a time to pause, reflect, and gather to remember those workers that have been injured and killed on the job. The tiny canary was once the only safeguard mine workers had against danger in the workplace. If the canary died, it was a signal to evacuate the mines, FAST!

Today, CUPE members across Canada act as frontline protection for their fellow citizens. They have become the canaries. Each year approximately 1,000 Canadian workers are killed on the job. Hundreds of thousands are injured and countless thousands become permanently disabled or die from work related diseases. April 28 is a day to rededicate ourselves to the fight for improved Health and Safety.

In closing let me say that often it is not an easy road being a steward or for that matter a Health and Safety Representative. It takes a huge amount of personal dedication and commitment and for some, it may even seem thankless at times. But please know that all our brothers and sisters who individually and collectively make our union what it is value your ongoing support, dedication, and assistance. Remember, knowledge is power!