Statement on 100th Anniversary of William Davis’s Death

NOTE: The following is a statement from Nolan Young, Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration.

Today marks a solemn and significant anniversary in Nova Scotia’s labour history. On June 11, 1925, coal miner William Davis was killed during a labour strike in Cape Breton while standing up for workers’ rights.

Each year, Davis Day is observed to honour his memory and to recognize all those who have lost their lives working in Nova Scotia’s mines. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made and the progress achieved in creating safer, fairer workplaces.

William Davis’s death became a turning point in the labour movement. His courage, and the solidarity shown by his community, helped pave the way for lasting change in how workers are treated and protected.

As Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration – and as someone who lost my own father in a mining accident – I carry a deep personal understanding of what this day means to families and communities. The grief, the strength and the determination to do better are part of our province’s story.

Our government continues to honour that legacy by investing in workplace safety – through stronger education, enforcement and modernized health and safety regulations. Every worker deserves to come home safe at the end of the day.

On this 100th anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of workers across Nova Scotia.