National Day of Observance

Reflecting on Our Losses
On Tuesday, PM Justin Trudeau announced that today will be named a “National Day of Observance” to “honour everyone we lost to this terrible virus, and to recognize the impact this global pandemic has had on all our lives… As a country we remember all those we lost, and we mourn with families and friends.” The new day will also serve to commemorate the many significant impacts of the pandemic, from isolation to unemployment, and to honour the many frontline workers who have put themselves at risk.

Reference Site: Observance, Procrastination & Blarney (mailchi.mp)

OTTAWA — The federal government is designating March 11—the one-year anniversary of the World Health Organization declaring COVID-19 a global pandemic—a national day of observance to commemorate those who have died due to the virus.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the new day in a statement on Monday, saying it will also signify a reflection on the “significant impacts” all have felt due to COVID-19, from isolation and unemployment to losing time with friends and family.

“Early last year, our lives, and the lives of everyone around the world, were forever changed by the emergence of COVID-19,” Trudeau said. “Today – one year after the first known death of a Canadian to the disease – we now mourn the tragic loss of more than 22,000 parents, siblings, friends, and loved ones.”

The government is inviting Canadians to think this week about those who have died and the health-care and other essential workers who have been on the front lines of the fight against the novel coronavirus.

“During this crisis, Canadians have remained resilient. They have helped neighbours, given to organizations, put signs in their windows to support our health care workers, and lent a hand wherever possible,”

Reference Site: Coronavirus: March 11 declared national day of observance for Canadians who died of COVID-19 | CTV News