Fallen Workers Honored With Tree-Planting Ceremony

DULUTH, Minn. — Workers who died or suffered injuries on the job were honored Monday at the Duluth Labor Temple.

Workers Memorial Day is a holiday honoring fallen workers as well as highlighting the importance of safer working conditions. Union members, elected officials and community leaders all gathering for a solidarity breakfast and tree-planting ceremony. There haven’t been any work-related deaths in the area the last two years, but they are still focused on the mission.

“I think it’s very important every year to get people together and talk about it. To keep people sharp and to bring it back to their organizations and even their families, everyday life, keep everybody safe. You know it’s as simple as wearing safety glasses when you’re cutting wood on a project at home so,” said Derek Pederson, President of the Duluth Central Labor Body.

Organizers say they will continue to get the word out about building safety in working environments every year.