2026 Day of Mourning

Today at Lucas Point Park in Cobourg, workers, community members, municipal officials, and union leaders gathered to observe the National Day of Mourning. We took this opportunity to honor the workers who have lost their lives, suffered injuries, or became ill while on the job.

To commemorate the Day of Mourning, the Northumberland Labour Council underscored the importance of psychological health and safety as essential aspects of workplace safety. Both physical and mental injuries in the workplace are serious and should be treated with equal significance. Many workers are experiencing burnout, chronic stress, harassment, and mental health crises due to unsafe working conditions. It is vital to recognize these psychological injuries and illnesses with the same seriousness as we do for physical ones. We must strive to eliminate psychological hazards because these harms are preventable and should not be regarded as “just part of the job.” Every worker deserves a workplace that is safe for both their body and mind.

Every worker should be able to return home safely at the end of the day, both physically and mentally. We all share the responsibility to protect workers and ensure their safety. The Northumberland Labour Council will continue to advocate for safer workplaces, free from violence, injury, and harm. To those who have lost a loved one in the workplace, we stand with you in remembrance and solidarity.