2026 Day of Mourning: Honouring Lives Lost and Calling for Action
Each year on April 28, we observe the National Day of Mourning by remembering and honouring those who lost their lives because of their work.
In 2025, 144 Albertans died from work-related injury or illness, according to the Workers’ Compensation Board of Alberta. These are more than numbers. They are people whose lives mattered, and whose loss is deeply felt by their families, friends, co-workers, and communities. It is also a painful reminder that more must be done to protect workers.
The reality for HSAA members
For HSAA members, this day carries particular weight. Members face significant physical and psychological risks every day.
Recent data shows the disabling injury rate — claims serious enough to require modified duties or time away from work — ranged from about five to nearly 20 injuries per 100 workers across health care, including AHS EMS. Even at the low end, that was 86 per cent higher than the rate in industrial and commercial construction.
Workplace violence is also rising. AHS data shows incidents have increased steadily over the past five years, and HSAA’s recent AHS bargaining survey found that one in four members — and more than half of EMS members — experienced workplace violence in the past year.
"The Day of Mourning is a time to remember the workers we have lost and stand with everyone affected by workplace harm. It is also a reminder that every worker deserves to be safe at work and return home at the end of the day."
Mike Parker, HSAA President
A call to action
The Day of Mourning is not only about remembrance. It is also a call to action.
“HSAA members know the realities of unsafe work, violence, trauma, and psychological strain. We will continue pushing for stronger workplace protections, including safer worksites, better supports, and recognition of the impacts this work can have on members.”
Leanne Alfaro, HSAA President-Elect
HSAA will continue working with governments and employers to strengthen workplace protections through stronger legislation, safer worksites, and greater investment in workers’ physical and mental well-being. HSAA will also continue using collective bargaining to build on the strong health and safety provisions in our collective agreements.
Mark the Day of Mourning
HSAA encourages everyone to attend a Day of Mourning ceremony in their community and reflect on the importance of workplace health and safety.
Honour those we have lost. Support safer workplaces for everyone.
Day of Mourning events near you:
- Edmonton & District Labour Council
30th Annual Day of Mourning Ceremony 2025
Broken Families Monument, Grant Notley Park, 11603 Street-100 Avenue
April 28, 2026, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Contact: office@edlc.ca
Website: 30th Annual Day of Mourning – Edmonton District Labour Council - Calgary & District Labour Council
Day of Mourning Wreath Laying Ceremony and Memorial Service
City of Calgary Workers Memorial, Edward Place Park, City Hall (SE corner, 9th Ave. and Macleod Trail SE)
April 28, 2026, 12:00 p.m.
Contact: admin@thecdlc.ca
Website: The Calgary & District Labour Council - Calgary & District Labour Council - Lethbridge and District Labour Council
Day of Mourning Ceremony
CUPE Local 70 Workers Memorial Site, Mountain View Cemetery, 1210 Scenic Drive South
April 28, 2026, 10:00 a.m.
Contact: ldlcsecretary@gmail.com - Red Deer and District Labour Council
Day of Mourning Ceremony
Bower Ponds, 4707 Fountain Drive #6, Red Deer
April 28, 2026, 11:00 a.m.
Contact: rddlc1@gmail.com - Wood Buffalo and District Labour Council
Day of Mourning Ceremony
Howard Pew Parks-Waterways, Fort McMurray
April 28, 2025, 10:45 a.m.
Contact: Omer.Hussein@hsaa.ca