Ontario to build workers’ memorial at Queen’s Park

On the recent National Day of Mourning the Government of Ontario unveiled the design concept for a new memorial to commemorate the contributions and sacrifices of construction workers whose lives have been lost or changed forever due to work-related incidents.

The memorial, which will be located on the grounds of Queen’s Park near the intersection of College Street and University Avenue, will provide a dedicated space for reflection and remembrance, while serving as a lasting reminder of the shared responsibility to protect workers every day.

“Today, we join communities across Ontario to remember the workers who have given so much to build our province,” said Premier Doug Ford. “For the families and colleagues of workers who lost their lives or were injured on the job, this memorial will serve as a place to honour their sacrifices and stand as a reminder of our duty to make sure workers always come home safely.”

To be built on the grounds of Queen’s Park, the memorial will honour construction workers who have suffered a workplace death, injury or illness and is expected to be completed in 2027. The design features a collection of plaques that come together to form a self-supporting raised design to honour the names of workers who lost their lives on the job. A new plaque will be added each year on April 28 to mark the National Day of Mourning.

“Our government is remembering those we have lost and supporting workers and families affected by workplace tragedy,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “With this memorial, we are honouring the men and women who built this province and reinforcing a clear message that workplace safety is non-negotiable and protecting workers must always come first.”

Featured image: Memorial design concept. (Government of Ontario)