It is more than 30 years since the Day of Mourning (DOM) for workers injured or killed on the job was established in Canada. It is now observed around the world.

The topic of health and safety is more important than ever, in the midst of the worst pandemic in a century. Let’s teach our students and young workers about their health and safety rights at work.

How it works

Due to the online format in 2021, there is no need to register your school or classroom to participate in the Day of Mourning BC Schools Project - simply head to the Download Materials page to get started.

Class materials

Here are the materials your class needs to conduct your Day of Mourning project.

Watch the Video

“Day of Mourning the Untold Story”, produced by the BC Federation of Labour Health and Safety Centre (2017)

The Day of Mourning (DOM) for workers killed or injured on the job, began in Canada and is now observed around the world.

WHAT IS THE DAY OF MOURNING PROJECT FOR BC SCHOOLS?

Many students and young people lack knowledge of the dangers of work and their rights as workers.  They are the most vulnerable group in the workforce as they are statistically more likely to suffer injury or death at the workplace.

  • Workers in BC can enter the workplace as young as 12 years of age

  • In BC, an average of 27 young workers have time-loss injuries every day

  • Every week, seven young workers are permanently disabled in BC

The Day of Mourning BC Schools Project is a partnership of the BC Federation of Labour, BC Labour Heritage Centre, BC Principals’ and Vice-Principals’ Association, BC School Trustees’ Association, BC Teachers’ Federation, CUPE BC and WorkSafe BC.

April 28, 2023 falls on a Friday. Our materials include activities that encourage schools to remotely participate in a series of events and activities in the week leading up to the Day of Mourning (April 21-28).

Our goals:

  • encourage schools to participate in the Day of Mourning

  • teach students and young workers about their rights in the workplace

  • reduce the number of deaths and injuries among young workers 

ATTN: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Day of Mourning will be in an online format again in 2023. Print packages will not be distributed. Some of our materials have been updated to better support online/independent learning.