International Workers Memorial Day commemorates those who died or were injured through work, bringing us together to remember the dead and fight for the living. There are two events in Leeds on Friday, designed so that those who are able to do so can attend the city-wide commemoration and make their way back to campus for the University of Leeds ceremony.

11.45 am Leeds TUC ceremony: Assemble at the Workers memorial (outside Leeds Art Gallery) from 11.45am to observe a minute’s silence at 12 noon followed by some short speeches from trade union representatives, the Leader of Leeds City Council, Richard Burgon MP, and the laying of wreaths. The Unite Brass Band will perform which is always moving. Leeds UCU will lay a wreath at this ceremony. See: Leeds Workers Memorial Day Event | Megaphone UK

1.15pm Ceremony at University of Leeds: All staff are invited to attend a brief ceremony for Workers’ Memorial Day, held outside LUU. Students, members from local communities, members of staff, and their trade union representatives will gather by the University of Leeds Student Union to remember all workers who lost their lives to workplace illness or injury, and to recommit ourselves to keep our workplace safe. There will be short speeches from Hilary Benn MP, Tracy Brabin Mayor of West Yorkshire, and the University of Leeds’ Director of Health and Safety Services. Following these addresses, weather permitting, attendees will make their way to St Georges’ Fields to lay wreaths at the foot of the Workers’ Memorial Tree.