Watch our Remembrance Ceremony for Workers Who Died on the Job

MEDIA ADVISORY – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Men’s Issues Charity Observes Workers’ National Day of Mourning
Males are 96.5% of workplace deaths; effective safety programs must target affected population

TORONTO, ON – (April 28, 2016) The “men’s issues” charity Canadian Centre for Men and Families (CCMF) is participating in today’s National Day of Mourning, in remembrance of workers who have been killed, injured or suffered illness on the job.

“One workplace fatality is one too many,” said CCMF Executive Director Justin Trottier. “But to solve this tragedy we must target the affected group, and males account for the overwhelming majority of deaths on the job.”

In the period from 2005 to 2014, males made up 96.5% of workplace fatalities from occupational disease and 91% of fatalities from workplace trauma [Source: 2014 WSIB Statistical Report]. The most dangerous occupations, including construction, manufacturing and transportation, have in common that they employ a significant majority of male workers.

“My uncle died at sea when his salmon troller capsized in a storm,” said CCMF Advisory Fellow Janice Fiamengo. “A willingness to do the most dangerous work is an aspect of men’s lives wherein their sacrifice for their families and community is too little recognized.”

“As a men’s health organization, we challenge men to move away from an identity tied to behaviour that is risky or dangerous, and to demand a safer work environment for themselves and their coworkers,” said Trottier.

Women have historically been precluded from dangerous professions. While the stated goal was to protect women, dangerous jobs pay higher wages precisely because they are less desirable.

In honour of our fallen family members and friends, CCMF will hold a Day of Mourning Remembrance Ceremony today at 3:00PM EDT at the Canadian Centre for Men and Families, Toronto’s first men’s health facility, at 152 Carlton St (at Homewood Ave), in downtown Toronto.

“In solidarity with events across the country, individuals will wear black and yellow ribbons, light candles and observe a moment of silence. Stories will be shared of lost loved ones and we will renew our commitment to building a safer and more healthy workplace,” said Trottier.

CONTACT
Justin Trottier
Executive Director,
Canadian Centre for Men and Families
jtrottier@menandfamilies.org
416-402-8856

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For more information visit:

Workplace Safety and Insurance Board Day of Mourning Website