Posted on March 30, 2018

ADAO stands shoulder to shoulder with individuals, trade unions, and organizations for International Workers’ Memorial Day, dedicated to those who have fallen victim to or been injured by accidents in the workplace, including those stemming from occupational asbestos exposure. 

All around the world, people are uniting, taking a stand, and making sure their voices are heard. 

More than 125 million workers worldwide are still regularly exposed to asbestos, but we at ADAO know that knowledge is stronger than asbestos. For decades, trade unions and NGOs such as Hazard and AFL-CIO have commemorated this important day with activities and awareness. The ADAO community will light a candle on April 28 to show our support for this important day and join an international community in remembering the dead and fighting for the living. 

Two new excellent resources are:

The Day of Mourning, April 28th, had somewhat simple beginnings – but it took the persistence and the support of many like-minded individuals to come to fruition. Friends and Union colleagues, Coalminer Colin Lambert and former journeyman insulator Dr. Ray Sentes both had a passion for workplace safety and banning asbestos. Together, while driving to a CLC meeting in 1983 they were stopped by a firefighter’s funeral. The respect they witnessed from the community, family, friends, and co-workers struck a chord with them and they both thought that workers killed in other occupations should be recognized. The video commemorating the founding of the day tells the whole story behind what is now recognized as a day of remembrance all over North America. Dr. Ray Sentes passed away April 13, 2000 of Asbestosis at the age of 56.

Ray Sentes daughter, Rachel shared, “April is a tough month for me because I lost my dad, but it gives me some solace knowing that I can remember him and give my respect and strength to others who are mourning their loved ones. Everyone needs to feel safe where they work and ultimately, we don’t want this day to have to be on the calendar. It’s so important to keep pushing for good health and safety practices so we don’t increase the number of fatalities from preventable workplace incidences.” 

Video- Courtesy Al Bieksa and The B.C Federation of Labour Health and Safety Centre

Please join ADAO on Saturday, as we light candles to those who have died from asbestos exposure.

In solidarity and united remembrance,

Linda Reinstein

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