An injury to one is an injury to all: Unifor recognizes Injured Workers Day

On Monday, June 1, Unifor members joined labour allies, advocates, and community organizations at Queen's Park in recognition of Injured Workers Day.

"On Injured Workers Day, we rally together to remind governments that injured workers cannot be ignored," said Unifor National President Lana Payne. "We also come together raise awareness about workplace injuries and the importance of advocating for healthy and safe workplaces."

Injured Workers Day was first recognized by workers and their families on June 1, 1983, in response to sweeping changes being proposed to Ontario's workers' compensation system. On that day, more than 3,000 injured workers converged on the steps of the Ontario legislature to demand their voice be heard.

In 2024, Ontario officially recognized June 1 as Injured Workers Day.

Today, injured workers are still often unable to access adequate support. Those who came together on Injured Workers Day continue to demand that injured workers receive compensation that is fair, transparent, and does not rely on half-measures.

Ontario Regional Director Samia Hashi addressed the rally: "No worker should be pushed into poverty because they were injured while doing their job. Yet that is the reality for far too many."

"Today, and every day, we stand together to demand better. Because injured workers deserve dignity. They deserve security. And they deserve justice."