Himalayan Samarpan Meditation Awareness Month, January 2026

WHEREAS, the Shree Shivkrupanand Swami Foundation Canada also known as Himalayan Samapran Medication Canada is a spiritual organization dedicated to promoting the personal growth, inner peace and spiritual awareness through the practice of meditation; and

WHEREAS, the Himalayan Samarpan Meditation Canada has been founded by Shree Shivkrupanand Swami, who has dedicated his life for spreading the message of Universal Love (One World, One Family); World Peace through Inner Peace; the individual spiritual awakening through the practice of meditation; and

WHEREAS, Shree Shivkruapanand Swami graced the City of St. John's with his visit in August of 2009 to delivered a discourse and answer spiritual questions from the citizens of St. John's; and

WHEREAS, Shree Shivkrupanand Swami's teachings emphasize on the importance of connecting with one's inner self to achieve harmony and balance in life, inspiring countless individuals (in more than 72 countries) on the journey of self-discovery and inner peace; and

WHEREAS, the practice of Himalayan Samarpan Meditation has shown significant benefits in reducing stress, improving mental health, enhancing overall quality of life, all of which advance the Vision of the City of St. John's of having people who are vibrant, sustainable and connected; and

WHEREAS, the Himalayan Samarpan Meditation practice is a simple, experience-based process that can be practiced by anyone, regardless of their background, gender, race, religion, colour or lifestyle, requiring comparatively less effort for significant spiritual experience; and

WHEREAS, the Himalayan Samarpan Meditation is taught for free globally through workshops, retreats; and

WHEREAS, the Shree Shivkrupanand Swami Foundation Canada also known as Himalayan Samarpan Meditation has actively organized free meditation sessions, workshops and retreats in the City of St. John's to educate and encourage individuals to embrace transformative power of Meditation; and

THEREFORE, I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim the month of January 2026 as Himalayan Samarpan Meditation Awareness Month.

Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day, January 26, 2026

WHEREAS: Kawasaki Disease is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children and affects children around the globe. Early diagnosis is a matter of life or death and/or lifelong coronary distress. Early detection is critical; increased awareness of early symptoms is imperative to diagnosis and effective treatment. We want Kawasaki disease to be top of mind of Canadians and for us to increase awareness and save children's hearts from the effects of Kawasaki disease; and

WHEREAS: Kawasaki Disease Canada is the only Canadian national charity working to improve outcomes of Kawasaki disease and at the forefront of Kawasaki disease issues by collaborating with families affected by the disease and medical professionals. January 26 is the anniversary of the day in 1961 that Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki began to recognize a cluster of symptoms that led to the classification "Kawasaki disease". It has been more than 50 years, the cause of the disease is still unknown. Increased awareness is imperative. Kawasaki Disease Canada supports international partners in the quest to increase awareness and is pursuing this proclamation across Canada; and

WHEREAS: Kawasaki Disease Canada’s mission is to ensure Kawasaki disease is top-of-mind for Canadians. Our vision is saving children’s hearts from the effects of Kawasaki disease. Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day aims to bring awareness and education to the community about the importance of early detection.

WHEREAS: On this day, the 26th day of January, the observance and recognition of Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day will increase public understanding of this serious childhood illness, promote early recognition of symptoms and encourage timely medical intervention while strengthening community support for affected children and families, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and a healthier, more informed community.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim January 26, 2026, as Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day in the City of St. John’s.

Heritage Week, February 16-20, 2026

WHEREAS, the third Monday in February is recognized nationally as Heritage Day; and

WHEREAS, Heritage Day and Heritage Week are a time to reflect on the achievements of past generations and to accept responsibility for protecting our heritage; and

WHEREAS, our citizens should be encouraged to celebrate Newfoundland and Labrador’s uniqueness and to rejoice in our heritage; and

WHEREAS, in 2026 the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador will celebrate our rich and diverse heritage.

THEREFORE, I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim Monday, February 16, 2026 as Heritage Day and February 16-20, 2026 as Heritage Week, and call upon all citizens to celebrate the richness of our past and the promise of our future.

Wear Red Canada Day, February 13, 2026

WHEREAS: Heart disease is the number one killer of women worldwide and the leading cause of premature death for Canadian women, a fact unknown to many women and their healthcare providers; and

WHEREAS: The Canadian Women’s Heart Health Alliance is an organization of volunteer health professionals and patients working hard to improve women’s heart health; and

WHEREAS: Wear Red Canada Day is celebrated annually to raise awareness for all Canadians, but especially Canadian women, to be mindful, curious, and proactive in the management of their heart health and wellness; and

WHEREAS: We want to see better prevention, diagnosis, and care and fewer women dying prematurely from heart disease;

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim Friday, February 13, 2026, as Wear Red Canada Day in the City of St. John’s.

Amyloidosis Awareness Month, March 2026

WHEREAS: March is Amyloidosis Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness, funding research and supporting those living with amyloidosis and their loved ones; and

WHEREAS: Amyloidosis is a group of diseases that occurs when an abnormal protein, known as amyloid, builds up in the tissues and organs of the body. Left untreated, the disease can result in organ failure and can be fatal; and

WHEREAS: Amyloidosis can mimic the signs and symptoms of more common medical conditions and the disease can be challenging to diagnose; and

WHEREAS: Amyloidosis often affects people who are older or middle aged; however, younger people have been diagnosed with this disease; and

WHEREAS: Some of the signs and symptoms of amyloidosis can include shortness of breath, weight loss, fatigue, swelling in the ankles and legs, numbness in the hands and feet, foamy urine, carpal tunnel syndrome, bruising around the eyes, and an enlarged tongue; and

WHEREAS: Early diagnosis can lead to better outcomes for both patients and their families; and

WHEREAS: Raising awareness about all the amyloidosis diseases, including hereditary and non-hereditary forms of the disease, can contribute to the building of healthier communities across Canada.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim March, as Amyloidosis Awareness Month in the City of St. John’s.

Easter Seals Month, March 2026

WHEREAS: More than 130,000 people of all ages in our province live with disabilities such as physical, sensory, cognitive, or other disabilities that present barriers to full participation in society; and

WHEREAS: Easter Seals Newfoundland & Labrador is a charitable organization with a vision for a community where all people with disabilities live full, healthy, and active lives. A mission to engage, inspire, and maximize opportunities for people with disabilities of all ages by providing meaningful programs and services; and

WHEREAS: Easter Seals NL’s Recreation Programs help those with disabilities explore what they can do, through independence camps, art and music therapy, and adaptive sports, promoting full, active, and healthy, socially engaged lifestyles; and

WHEREAS: Easter Seals NL offers Employment and Educational Services to assist those with barriers to employment in successfully transitioning from home and school into adulthood and independence with a focus on preparing for, obtaining, and maintaining gainful employment; and

WHEREAS: Easter Seals NL’s ‘I Can Too’ Disability Awareness Program activities foster disability awareness and sensitivity and provide tools for accessibility and inclusion;

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim March, as Easter Seals Month in the City of St. John’s.

World Kidney Day, March 12, 2026

WHEREAS: One in ten Canadians live with chronic kidney disease. CKD affects one in three indigenous. Survival will depend on dialysis treatments or a kidney transplant. Kidney disease is the tenth leading cause of death in Canada. Kidney disease accounts for approximately 71% of the national organ transplant waitlist; and

WHEREAS: The Kidney Foundation of Canada is the only national health charity serving the needs of people living with kidney disease through funding research, educational and emotional support programs, promotes access to high quality case, and, actively promoting awareness of and commitment to kidney health and organ donation; and

WHEREAS: March 12^th, 2026, is World Kidney Day the Kidney Foundation, Atlantic Branch aims to raise awareness of the importance of our kidneys to our overall health and to reduce the frequency and impact of kidney disease and its associated health problems.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim March 12^th, 2026, as World Kidney Day in the City of St. John’s.

Purple Day for Epilepsy, March 26, 2026

WHEREAS: Purple Day is a global effort to promote Epilepsy Awareness in countries around the world; and

WHEREAS: Purple Day was founded by nine-year-old Cassidy Megan of Nova Scotia, who wanted to let people know that if you have epilepsy, you are not alone; and

WHEREAS: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder, which affects each person differently, estimated to affect more than 10,000 people in Newfoundland and Labrador, over 300,000 people in Canada, and 50 million people worldwide; and

WHEREAS: One in ten persons will have at least one seizure during their lifetime; and

WHEREAS: The public is often unable to recognize common seizure types, and unable to respond with appropriate first aid; and

WHEREAS: Purple Day will be celebrated on March 26th annually to increase understanding, reduce stigma, and improve the quality of life for people living with epilepsy throughout the country and globally.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim March 26th, as Purple Day in the City of St. John’s.

Records and Information Management Month, April 2026

WHEREAS: International Records and Information Management Month will take place in the month of April 2026; and

WHEREAS: Records and Information Management Month serves to increase awareness of the importance of maintaining secure, accessible, and well-organized information; and

WHEREAS: Effective management of records and information is critical to the efficient operation of the City’s governance and the delivery of public services as it encourages informed decision-making, regulatory compliance, record safeguards, and the preservation of municipal history; and

WHEREAS: The City acknowledges the value of sound records and information management practices and strives to foster a strong records and information management culture, supported by a mature Information Management program.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim the month of April 2026 as Records and Information Management Month in the City of St. John’s.

Youth Week, May 1-7, 2026

WHEREAS: There is an increasing interest in intentional youth development through recreation in Canada that is founded on a substantial and growing body of research to support the role of recreation in the positive development of youth. Meaningful youth engagement through recreation emphasizes access, equity and social justice and leads to positive youth development.

WHEREAS: National Youth Week reminds us all of the valuable contributions that recreation and parks can make to youth development and that youth can make to community development and with the knowledge that National Youth Week is endorsed by a network of agencies and individuals committed to the positive development of youth;

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim May 1 to 7, 2026, as Youth Week in the City of St. John’s.

Annual Battle of the Atlantic Commemoration, May 3, 2026

WHEREAS: The Battle of the Atlantic is considered the longest continuous battle during the second World War; and

WHEREAS: The Royal Canadian Navy commemorates the Battle of the Atlantic each year on the first Sunday of May; and

WHEREAS: The local Naval Reserve Division, His Majesty's Canadian Ship CABOT will parade through the streets of our city and lay wreaths at the National War Memorial and at sea; and

WHEREAS: The goal of the commemoration activities is to honour those who were lost during the Battle of the Atlantic, and instill national pride in the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Armed Forces.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim May 3, 2026, as Battle of the Atlantic Sunday in the City of St. John’s.

Occupational Health and Safety week, May 3-9, 2026

WHEREAS: Occupational Health and Safety week is observed the first full week of May each year. This week aims to raise awareness about occupational safety and the physical and psychological wellbeing of workers; and

WHEREAS: The Occupational Health and Safety division at the City of St John’s are working collaborate with all levels of the organization to ensure the prevention of injuries and safety off all our employees is the primary consideration when carrying out any business; and

WHEREAS: During this week, OHS has an education day for employees scheduled with the theme “Making Prevention Personal”. Where are all employees are asked to reflect on “why they work safe?” These values are a representation of the organizational core values of Taking Ownership and a commitment to Continuing to do Thing Better; and

WHEREAS: The result of these activities will achieve heighten awareness in prevention of injuries and illness and protecting our greatest resource: Our People.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim May 3 to May 9, 2026, as Occupational Health & Safety Week in the City of St. John’s.

World Ovarian Cancer Day, May 8, 2026

WHEREAS: Ovarian Cancer has no early detection testing; and

WHEREAS: Ovarian Cancer symptoms are often confused with other less severe illnesses; and

WHEREAS: Ovarian Cancer has the lowest survival rate of all female cancers. Citizens are encouraged to talk to their health care provider and seek to learn more about this disease; and

WHEREAS: As many as 23 percent of women with Ovarian Cancer have an inherited genetic mutation; and

WHEREAS: Genetic testing is a way to identify people at high risk before they develop Ovarian Cancer.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim May 8, 2026, as World Ovarian Cancer Day in the City of St. John’s.

Municipal Awareness Week, May 10-16, 2026

WHEREAS: Municipal government is responsible for the provision of services that enhance the quality of life of its citizens; and

WHEREAS: Dedicated Mayors, Councillors, and staff are essential for the effective governance of their municipalities; and

WHEREAS: Collaboration, partnerships and citizen involvement are essential for active, sustainable and vibrant communities; and

WHEREAS: It is fitting and proper to recognize and encourage the contribution of all who work diligently for the improvement of our municipalities.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim May 10 to the 16, 2026, as Municipal Awareness Week in the City of St. John’s.

World Family Doctor Day, May 19, 2026

WHEREAS: World Family Doctor Week celebrated on May 19, 2026 offers an opportunity to recognize the exceptional efforts and unwavering commitment exhibited by Family Doctors to their patients. This year's theme has a focus on Compassionate Care in A Digital World and World Family Doctor Day recognizes the importance of Family Doctors and the role they play in healthcare in our province and communities; and

WHEREAS: The Endeavor Family Practice Network recognizes the effort to not only aspire to, but achieve and meet the needs of our family practice colleagues and patients.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim May 19, 2026, as World Family Doctor Day in the City of St. John’s.

GBS and CIDP Awareness Month, May 2026

WHEREAS: the Month of May, has been internationally designated as "GBS and CIDP Awareness Month" to educate the public and to focus attention on Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) and Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP), rare, paralyzing and potentially catastrophic disorders of the peripheral nerves; and

WHEREAS: Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) and its variants, are rare conditions which can be characterized by rapid onset of weakness and, often, paralysis of the legs, arms, breathing muscles and face, in some cases leading to complete paralysis requiring life-sustaining hospital care. Often accompanied with excruciating pain; and

WHEREAS: Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) and its variants, are rare progressive conditions, which can be characterized by the onset of weakness, numbness and tingling, which can lead to the paralysis of the legs and arms and effect other areas of the body, and it is not uncommon for individuals to endure significant pain; and

WHEREAS: Earlier diagnosis, treatment, and access to rehabilitation services can improve the chances of avoiding permanent lifelong residual damage of the nerves. In 2003, GBS/CIDP Foundation of Canada a patient organization providing support, education, research, and advocacy, was founded so that no patient or family would go through GBS,CIDP, and variants such as MMN alone.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim May 2026, as GBS and CIDP Awareness Month in the City of St. John’s.

Huntington's Disease Awareness Month, May 2026

WHEREAS: Huntington's disease (HD) is a hereditary, neurodegenerative illness with physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms for which there is no cure; and

WHEREAS: one in every 7,000 Canadians has HD and approximately one in every 5,500 is at-risk for developing the disease. Many more are touched by HD as a caregiver, family member, or friend; and

WHEREAS: Huntington disease Awareness Month reflects the Huntington Society of Canada’s (HSC) mission, which is to aspire to a world free from HD. HSC celebrates the resilience and hope demonstrated by the HD community. HSC aims to maximize the quality of life of people living with HD by delivering support services; enabling others to understand the disease; and supporting further breakthroughs in research to find treatments that address the root cause of HD; and

WHEREAS: HSC is a respected leader in the worldwide effort to end Huntington disease. HSC is the only national health charity dedicated to providing help and hope for families dealing with HD across Canada.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim May, as Huntington Disease Awareness Month. in the City of St. John’s.

Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, May 2026

WHEREAS: It is imperative that communities across Canada be reminded of the importance of sun safety; and

WHEREAS: Over-exposure to UV radiation is one of the major causes of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers; and

WHEREAS: Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. 1 in 6 Canadians born in the 1990s will get skin cancer in their lifetimes; and

WHEREAS: Many people seek sun without taking the advisable precautionary measures and are unaware that any darkening of skin colour, including a tan, is indicative of UV damage; and

WHEREAS: Skin self-examinations should be performed on a monthly basis because skin cancers are highly treatable when detected early; and

WHEREAS: Save Your Skin Foundation is dedicated to the fight against non-melanoma skin cancers, melanoma and ocular melanoma through nationwide education, advocacy, and awareness initiatives.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim May 2026, as Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month in the City of St. John’s.