CUPE Saskatchewan remembers and mourns those impacted by workplace injuries, including the COVID-19 pandemic. We reaffirm our solidarity and commitment to workplace health and safety and clearly state to all that we mourn the dead and fight for the living.
Workers in Canada continue to be killed at a completely unacceptable rate. The most recent available statistics show that nearly 1,000 workers are killed on the job each year – a number that does not include claims rejected by compensation boards.
“Everyone deserves a safe workplace,” said Judy Henley, president of CUPE Saskatchewan. “We must continue to push our employers and our governments to put rules in place that ensure workers are protected.”
Sadly, CUPE lost five members in 2021, two of whom were CUPE Saskatchewan members.
- Antonio Gaerlan, CUPE 145 (Ontario)
- Debbie Korhonen-Barrette, CUPE 3440 (Ontario)
- Mark Dennis, CUPE 1334 (Ontario)
- Tom Thomas, CUPE 5430 (Saskatchewan)
- Lisa Higginbotham, CUPE 3730 (Saskatchewan)
The Day of Mourning was created by CUPE members 40 years ago to remember those who lost their lives on the job and to inspire other workers to advocate to prevent further tragedies.
“COVID-19 has exposed the weaknesses in worker protection in Saskatchewan. Today we express our solidarity and support for all workers who continue to offer essential public services, despite the risks to their health and their families. More than ever, this crisis highlights the need for us to stand together for safe working conditions,” added Henley.
This April 28, and every day, CUPE Saskatchewan continues to fight for better legislation, for better education, and for the vital personal protective equipment our members need.
CUPE Saskatchewan is the largest union in the province and represents over 30,000 workers in health care, education, universities, community-based organizations, childcare, municipalities, libraries, social services, board and agencies and many more.