April 28 marks the National Day of Mourning, a time to remember workers across Canada whose lives have been lost, changed by injury, or impacted by illness because of their work. I hold them in grief, while recognizing that these losses could have been prevented.
Here in Toronto, we see every day how deeply this issue touches our communities. From construction sites to care work, from delivery routes to service jobs, too many workers are still navigating unsafe conditions. These risks are not shared equally. Racialized workers, migrants, and those in precarious work are often left with fewer protections and greater barriers when harm occurs.
As a City, we have a responsibility to lead. That means advocating for stronger protections, supporting enforcement, and ensuring our policies and partnerships centre worker safety and dignity. We must continue working alongside labour leaders, community organizations, and workers themselves to push for meaningful change at every level.
This day is a reminder that protecting workers demands action. I stand with workers, families, and communities in continuing this work. Everyone deserves to return home safely.