Since 1986, the Cumberland Museum and Archives has co-hosted an annual commemoration of fallen workers, highlighting labour history and contemporary labour issues.Miners Memorial Weekend is a celebration of workers and their families and a call for a renewed commitment for safe and healthy workplaces, justice and equity, and bread and roses for all. The coal mines in Cumberland were some of the mo
st dangerous in Canada, killing over 300 miners in accidents and countless others from work related illnesses. Appalling working conditions compelled miners to organize and connect with unions from across North America and internationally. Organizer Albert ‘Ginger’ Goodwin was shot and killed near Cumberland on July 27th, 1918, becoming an important symbol for the struggle of workers. His story is the subject of much song, fiery conversation and celebration in the Village. Miners Memorial Weekend welcomes hundreds from across the West Coast and beyond for a weekend filled with song, camaraderie, learning, food and drink, passionate exchange and respectful remembrance. The diverse program includes a comedy night, workshop, grave side vigils, guided tours, dinner with guest speaker, live music and more. Saturday afternoon participants come together at the Cumberland Cemetery for a special ceremony. Organizations, families or individuals can order a fair trade bouquet for $100 to be laid in their name on the graves of fallen miners and the families they left behind. All proceeds support museum programming and labour history exhibit and outreach development. With support from the Campbell River, Courtenay and District Labour Council, local musicians, artists, butchers, bakers and florists - Miners Memorial Weekend welcomes students, activists, union members, artists, families, observers and workers with open arms for an important acknowledgement of the blood, sweat and tears of our brothers and sisters from across time and around the world.
