Workers' Memorial Day

There is a day to commemorate people who have suffered and died on the job and to renew the fight for safe jobs, named Workers' Memorial Day.

Another name of Workers' Memorial Day is International Workers Remembrance Day or International Memorial Day (ICD) for the Dead and Injured or Day of Mourning.

History of Workers' Memorial Day

1989 was the first celebration of Workers' Memorial Day and the founder was the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO in abbreviation). The AFL-CIO, founded in 1955, is the largest trade union organization in the United States. There are several of national and international unions registered with it. Workers Remembrance Day was found in order to commemorate the millions of workers who were passed away because of their job. The day also aims to provide better safety regulations in the workplace.

April 28th every year is chosen as Workers' Memorial Day or the Day of Mourning or the International Day of Commemoration for the Dead and Injured, which is also the anniversary of the Occupational Safety and Health Act in 1970. The Protection Act was passed and the Occupational Safety and Health Association were also established on the same day. Before 1989, in 1984 and 1985, Canada also declared a day of mourning for lost workers through the Canadian Federation of Civil Service and the Canadian Labor Congress.

The number injuries relating work increased upon to 2% in 2018. Some injuries and deaths are recorded on CCTV and this can lead to prosecution by employers. However, it should be noted that not all injuries or deaths are captured on camera as many are work-related illnesses. In 2007, about 53,445 workers died from work-related illnesses. In addition to these issues, there are long-term economic and social impacts on workers' families and society at large. From facing financial hardships to lost productivity to medical expenses and more, it's a serious problem, to say the least.

How to celebrate Workers' Memorial Day

• Appreciate the workers

It is because of the daily hard work of our workers that we are living a comfortable life. Buying fresh produce at the market or delivering delicious food to your home, these people are working non-stop to make sure our society runs smoothly, especially during a pandemic. Appreciate their efforts and be kinder.

• Spread awareness

It is important that we protect workers by bringing to light the problem. The more voices involved, the higher the chances of success. Share with your friends and family via offline and online.

• Read about the history of workers

Educate yourself on the matter by doing research. You will be able to understand the problem well and present your case more clearly when talking to others about the cause.