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.

AccessAbility Week, May 31 - June 6, 2026

WHEREAS: National AccessAbility Week is held each year in recognition of the contributions of persons with disabilities, to celebrate progress and to inspire people to continuously work to remove accessibility barriers; and

WHEREAS: Accessibility and inclusion are essential aspects of municipal responsibility to ensure that community members have equitable opportunities and ability to participate in community life; and 

WHEREAS: The City of St. John’s is committed to designing and delivering accessible and inclusive programs, service and spaces that meet the diverse needs of our community; and

WHEREAS: The City of St. John’s values the leadership of persons with disabilities, our Inclusion Advisory Committee and the efforts made by organizations in our community to build accessible and inclusive places where people can live, work, learn and play.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim May 31^st to June 6^th, 2026 as AccessAbility Week 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.

World Refugee Day, June 20, 2026

WHEREAS: World Refugee Day is an international day designated by the United Nations to honour refugees around the globe. It falls each year on the 20th of June and shines a light on the rights, needs and dreams of those forced to flee. For 2026, World Refugee Day focuses on the right to seek safety, build support for their economic and social inclusion, and advocate for solutions; and

WHEREAS: The City of St. John’s is committed to developing a welcoming community and fostering an inclusive environment where diverse cultures are celebrated, and all citizens enjoy full participation in our society; and

WHEREAS: The City of St. John’s has partnered with the Association for New Canadians on a newcomer-focused Exhibit at City Hall featuring recent refugees titled Many Journeys, One Home; and

WHEREAS: The City encourages all residents to recognize that diversity is our strength and to view this Exhibit as an opportunity to welcome newcomers to their new home and become part of their settlement experience.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim June 20, 2026, to be World Refugee Day in the City of St. John’s.

Women in STEM and Trades Day, July 16, 2026

WHEREAS: Women and girls make invaluable contributions to science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and skilled trades, driving discovery, innovation, economic growth, and community well-being; and

WHEREAS: Expanding opportunities for women and girls in STEM fosters a more diverse, inclusive, and prosperous future by strengthening talent, advancing innovation, and supporting Newfoundland and Labrador's workforce and economy; and

WHEREAS: The City of St. John's is home to exceptional women, educators, researchers, students, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and community leaders whose achievements inspire future generations to dream boldly, pursue their passions, and lead with confidence; and

WHEREAS: Women in STEM Day celebrates these achievements while encouraging more women and girls to explore, pursue, and thrive in STEM careers. All residents are encouraged to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women in STEM while inspiring the innovators, creators, and changemakers who will shape our future.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim July 16, 2026, as Women in STEM Day, in the City of St. John’s.

Arthritis Awareness Month, September 2026

WHEREAS: Nationwide community support has been critical throughout Arthritis Society Canada’s 78-year history, enabling the organization to fulfill its mission to fight the fire of arthritis with research, advocacy, innovation, information and support; and

WHEREAS: Arthritis is a serious disease that causes debilitating pain, restricts mobility and diminishes quality of life. More than six million people in Canada – 1 in 5 – live with the brutal realities of arthritis every day and there is no cure. It is the leading cause of disability in Canada and costs our economy $45.9 billion in healthcare expenses and lost productivity. Without a greater spotlight on this growing issue, the number of people in Canada with arthritis will rise to nine million by 2045; and

WHEREAS: During Arthritis Awareness Month this September, we will raise awareness, mobilize and engage communities to understand the devastating impact of arthritis, and stand with us to fight for an arthritis-free future. We recognize the work underway and have developed a nationwide action plan, Arthritis Action Now: The Plan to End Arthritis, Canada’s first actionable, coordinated strategy to prevent, better treat, and ultimately cure arthritis through advocacy efforts and research investments; and

WHEREAS: Arthritis Society Canada is Canada’s national charity dedicated to extinguishing arthritis for good and supporting those living with the disease and their families.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim September, 2026, as Arthritis Awareness Month, in the City of St. John’s.

National Forest Week, September 20-26, 2026

WHEREAS: Canada’s forests are a valuable, renewable resource that contribute to our economy and the livelihoods of our communities; and

WHEREAS: Canada’s forests play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, clean air and water and wildlife habitat whilst being an important aspect of climate change mitigation efforts; and

WHEREAS: St. John's and its citizens rely on the surrounding forests for livelihood, health, and recreation; and

WHEREAS: This annual one-week campaign with the theme of “Forest Pathways: Innovation and Sustainability” will be celebrated across Canada by individuals and organizations; and

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim September 20 - 26, 2026, as National Forest Week in the City of St. John’s.

National Tree Day, September 23, 2026

WHEREAS: National Tree Day is an event celebrated every September across Canada, when communities come together to celebrate, plant, and protect our trees, while promoting a more climate-resilient world;

WHEREAS: Trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind, lower our heating and cooling costs, moderate temperature, clean the air, produce oxygen, and provide habitat for wildlife; and

WHEREAS: Trees are a renewable resource, giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, and countless other wood products; and

WHEREAS: Trees in our city increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community; and

WHEREAS: Trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal; and

WHEREAS: The City of St. John’s encourages all residents to recognize and celebrate the day by caring for or planting a tree.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim September 23, 2026, as National Tree Day in the City of St. John’s.

National Child Abuse Prevention Month, October 1-31, 2026

WHEREAS: Every child and youth deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment that supports their physical, emotional, social, and mental well-being. Child abuse, neglect, and exploitation can occur in homes, in communities, and online; and

WHEREAS: Miles for Smiles Foundation works to strengthen families, protect children, and help prevent child abuse and neglect. Keeping children and youth safe is a shared responsibility, requiring awareness, commitment, and collaboration among families, communities, organizations, and governments; and

WHEREAS: During Child Abuse Prevention Month, individuals, families, communities, and organizations are encouraged to learn the signs of abuse and exploitation and to understand emerging online risks. They are also encouraged to have open, age-appropriate conversations about safety, listen to children and youth, and know how to report concerns; and

WHEREAS: These efforts help create communities, both offline and online, where children and youth are safe, heard, supported, and protected. They also help ensure that trusted adults can recognize signs of harm, respond appropriately, and know where to seek help.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim October 2026, as Child Abuse Prevention Month in the City of St. John’s.

Energy Efficiency Month, October 1-31, 2026

WHEREAS: TakeCharge is a joint initiative between Newfoundland Power and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro aimed at creating energy efficiency awareness and delivering programs that promote electricity savings to the residents of this province; and

WHEREAS: Energy efficiency is important for the people of our province, as it helps reduce the demand on the electricity system and the impact on the environment, while helping homeowners and businesses save energy and money; and

WHEREAS: Taking place October 1st – 31st, Energy Efficiency Month is focused on providing residents and businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador with the information they need to save energy! With over 17 years of providing expert advice and rebates, the TakeCharge team is excited to share energy-saving tips all month long! From draft-proofing windows to installing LED bulbs – saving energy is easier than you may think; and

WHEREAS: Residents can visit TakeChargeNL.ca/EnergyEfficiencyMonth to see what’s happening throughout the month including events, special discounts at various local retailers, and a prize giveaway.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim October 2026, as Energy Efficiency Month in the City of St. John’s.

National Seniors Day & United Nations International Day of Older Persons, October 1, 2026

WHEREAS: Communities across Canada will join together on October 1 to recognize National Seniors Day and the United Nations International Day of Older Persons; and

WHEREAS: National Seniors Day focuses on celebrating and honoring the fundamental role seniors play in the prosperity of our communities and our country; and

WHEREAS: Seniors in St. John’s contribute in many ways to our community and are involved in all aspects of our lives, as parents, grandparents, teachers, volunteers, mentors, and neighbors. All citizens are urged to recognize the crucial role played by older Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and all older citizens in our community and our Province; and

WHEREAS: For 2026, the participating community and organizational representatives and the city staff of the Seniors Advisory Committee of the City of St. John’s have partnered to develop a program of activities to enable our older citizens to engage, socialize and reconnect; and 

WHEREAS: CARP NL, a participating organization of the Seniors Advisory Committee, is an advocate to ensure fair treatment for all seniors in an age friendly city; and 

WHEREAS: The City of St. John’s launched the Seniors’ Day celebration with a flag raising ceremony at 10:30 AM, on September 28, 2026.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim October 1, 2026, as Seniors Day in the City of St. John’s.

Wrongful Conviction Day, October 2, 2026

WHEREAS: The loss of one’s freedom due to a wrongful conviction has far-reaching and devastating consequences which not only affects the innocent individual’s life but also affects the quality of life of their families and has a harmful effect on society as a whole; and

WHEREAS: Wrongful convictions question the integrity and fairness of the criminal justice system and unless corrected undermines society's trust in their criminal justice system; and

WHEREAS: Wrongful Conviction Day is a global movement dedicated to advocating for innocent individuals who have been wrongly convicted of a crime they did not commit. The implementation and recognition of this day is the start to reaching a broader audience regarding the importance surrounding miscarriages of justice. A proclamation will assist to advocate, educate, and create awareness around those miscarriages of justice in hope for reform to minimize the effect it could have on another individual.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim October 2, 2026, as Wrongful Conviction Day, in the City of St. John’s.

Fire Prevention Week, October 4-10, 2026

WHEREAS: The City of St. John’s is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in and visiting our City. Fire is a serious public safety concern both locally and nationally, and home are where people are at greatest risk to fire; and

WHEREAS: Heating, electrical equipment, smoking materials are among the leading causes of reported home fires; cooking equipment is the leading cause of home structure fires; and associated injuries are the third leading cause of home fire deaths. Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in reported home fires in half; and

WHEREAS: City of St. John’s first responders are dedicated to reducing the occurrence of home fires and home fire deaths and injuries through prevention and protection education. St. John’s residents are responsive to public education measures and are able to take personal steps to increase their safety from fire, especially in their homes. Residents who have planned and practiced a home fire escape plan are more prepared and will therefore be more likely to survive a fire; and

WHEREAS: The Fire Prevention Week 2026 theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower” effectively serves to remind us all of the simple actions we can take to stay safer from fire during Fire Prevention Week and year-round.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim October 4-10, 2026, as Fire Prevention Week in the City of St. John’s.

National Dental Care Day, October 10, 2026

WHEREAS: Oral health is an important part of overall health and well-being; and

WHEREAS: National Dental Care Day promotes preventive care awareness, oral health education and community wellness initiatives across Canada; and

WHEREAS: Dental professionals, educators, students, clinics and volunteers contribute to healthier communities through service and public education; and

WHEREAS: Increasing awareness regarding preventive oral healthcare and early intervention supports healthier individuals, families and communities.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim October 10, 2026, as National Dental Care Day, in the City of St. John’s.

International Credit Union Day, October 15, 2026

WHEREAS: Credit Unions are financial cooperatives, democratically owned and operated and founded by people working together toward economic advancement; and

WHEREAS: Credit Unions embrace a “people-helping-people” philosophy through the pooling of personal resources and leadership abilities for the good of the cooperative, empowering members to improve their financial futures and uniting to help those in need; and

WHEREAS: Credit Unions have demonstrated outstanding leadership throughout the communities in which they have served since they were founded more than 150 years ago; and

WHEREAS: Credit Unions have championed the idea that people from all walks of life should have access to affordable financial services offered by credit unions; and 

WHEREAS: Credit Unions empower people to improve their economic situations in 100 nations around the world at more than 67,000 credit unions that serve the financial needs of approximately 400 million members, including more than 20,000 NLCU members in Newfoundland and Labrador, associated through local, state, regional and international organizations sharing the same commitment to serving credit union members; and 

WHEREAS: Credit Unions are developing strong alliances that make financial democracy possible in many countries throughout the world. All citizens are encouraged to recognize the many contributions NLCU and other credit unions have made to the communities in this province, and honor and express appreciation for their service and commitment.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2026, as International Credit Union Day in the City of St. John’s.

Co-op Week, October 11-17, 2026

WHEREAS: Co-op Week is celebrated each year to raise public awareness of the contribution the co-operative business sector makes to our province; and

WHEREAS: For over 77 years, the Newfoundland & Labrador Federation of Co-operatives has been supporting the co-operatives and credit unions of our province, representing over 100,000 individual members! This Co-op Week, we assert that “Co-ops Mean Business!”; and

WHEREAS: Co-operatives play a vital role in building strong communities, offering essential goods and services, fostering economic growth, providing employment opportunities, and promoting social responsibility. Co-operative businesses are ensuring a sustainable future for our province; and

WHEREAS: This important business sector plays a significant role in the economic and social development of communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

THEREFORE: I, Mayor Danny Breen, do hereby proclaim October 11^th – 17^th, 2026, as Co-op Week, in the City of St. John’s.