April 28 is the annual Day of Mourning. On that day, people across Canada and around the world honour and remember those who have been killed or injured on the job.

It is also a time to renew our commitment to preventing further workplace deaths and injuries. According to statistics from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board and the Ministry of Labour, there were 379 work-related deaths and 252,985 work-related injuries or illnesses in Ontario in 2007.

The Office of the Worker Adviser has a special connection to the Day of Mourning. The day pays tribute to the injured workers and survivors we serve. The day is observed on April 28 because it was on that date in 1914 that the Workmen's Compensation Act first became law in Ontario.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Day of Mourning. It was first recognized in 1984 by the Canadian Labour Congress. The Government of Ontario has been recognizing the Day of Mourning since the 1980s. In 1991, the federal government officially recognized the Day of Mourning.

The Day of Mourning is now recognized worldwide as International Workers' Memorial Day. On April 28, workers and labour unions across the globe hold ceremonies of remembrance. The day is officially recognized by the governments of many countries.

We invite you to join us in remembering all those who have died or been injured at work by observing a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m. on April 28 or by participating in one of the many Day of Mourning events taking place across Ontario.

A complete list of Day of Mourning events for 2009 is available from the Workers' Health and Safety Centre.