Photos from the Day of Mourning Ceremony in Kamloops

May 6, 2026

Recognized by many as one of the best Day of Mourning Ceremonies across Canada, the Kamloops Ceremony was a heartfelt event, bringing attention to those that have been injured and lost their lives on the job.

Held on April 28, 2026, at the KIA Lounge in the Sandman Centre, this year’s National Day of Mourning Service brought workers, families, unions, community leaders, and public representatives together in remembrance and solidarity.

Every year on April 28, Canada marks the National Day of Mourning. It is a day to remember and honour workers who have lost their lives, suffered injury, or experienced illness because of their work. It is also a day to renew our shared commitment to fighting for safer workplaces.

This year’s ceremony placed special focus on both visible and invisible workplace hazards. Not every injury can be seen. Exposure to harmful chemicals, unsafe work environments, stress, trauma, and long-term occupational illnesses can have lifelong impacts on workers and their families. Young workers, especially those new to the workforce, need to know that hazards are not always obvious, and employers must take responsibility for making sure every worker has the training, protection, and safe conditions they deserve.

The ceremony included an Honour Guard representing Kamloops Corrections Services, BC Sheriff Services, Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement Services, and Kamloops Fire & Rescue. The Valleyview Secondary Choir performed O Canada and Amazing Grace, while Knowledge Keeper Leigh LaRue of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc offered an Honour Song and Welcome.

Brian Andrews, KDLC 2nd Vice President and IBEW 993 member, served as MC and delivered a message on behalf of the Kamloops & District Labour Council. Guests included Caleb Mierau from WorkSafeBC, Owen Goodwin from USW 1-417, Chief Ken Uzeloc from Kamloops Fire and Rescue, and Deputy Mayor Margot Middleton from the City of Kamloops.

The service also included prayers from Reverend Shawn Wiesner, the Last Post performed by Jerome Lidster, a Moment of Silence, the Lament performed by piper Anders Udsen, and the Rouse performed again by Jerome Lidster. Following the ceremony, the wreath sponsored by WorkSafeBC was laid at the workers’ memorial at City Hall.

The Kamloops & District Labour Council thanks everyone who planned, participated in, and attended the 2026 National Day of Mourning Service. We also thank this year’s sponsors: the BC Federation of Labour, IBEW 993, CUPE 900, CUPE 4879, and the HEU.

On the National Day of Mourning, we remember those we have lost, and we recommit ourselves to fighting for the living. No job is worth a life. Together, we can prevent future tragedies and build safer workplaces for every worker.