Statement from Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic on the National Day of Observance for COVID-19

“On March 11, 2020, the lives of Kitchener residents and citizens throughout Waterloo region and around the world changed forever as the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. In the year that followed, over 11,000 of our neighbours in this region have personally fought the battle against COVID-19. Tragically, we have mourned the loss of over 235 parents, siblings, friends and loved ones from this virus.

The battle against COVID-19 has also had health and well-being consequences for others, and today we acknowledge them as well – those who are struggling or who have lost their battles due to cancelled surgeries, delayed treatments or increased mental health challenges.

While the battle against COVID-19 has most directly affected each of these individuals and their families, it has also left an indelible mark on each and every one of us over the past year. We have all been called to service to do our part in the fight against this virus by following public health guidelines and supporting each other through this difficult time.

The past year has seen the lives of Kitchener residents and Canadians of all ages directly impacted by COVID-19; From in-home schooling and work-from-home directives, to cancelled dance classes and sport seasons. From cancelled birthday parties and anniversaries to missed hugs and the inability to say goodbye to loved ones. From job loss to the closure of businesses – there isn’t a family who has not been impacted by COVID-19 over the past year.

Despite all these challenges, the past year has also shown us some of the best of what we as humans are capable of. Our health care workers, first responders and other essential workers have put themselves at risk, working tirelessly so we could get the service and care we needed. We saw people organize neighbourhood signs, sing and clang pots to say thank you. Those who have been able, have stepped up with donations to organizations like the Food Bank of Waterloo Region to assist neighbours with their basic needs. We’ve seen residents check in on older neighbours they rarely interacted with before. And we’ve seen volunteers step up, despite the challenges, to ensure our kids had ice to skate on this winter. These stories of hope and positivity are endless, and they reflect who we are as Kitchener residents.

With the arrival of Spring and the ramping up of vaccines in the weeks ahead, let’s not forget that the pandemic is not over yet and we all must continue to do our part including following public health guidance over the coming months. Today, we join our fellow Canadians in this National Day of Observance. To commemorate this day, we have lowered the flags at all city facilities throughout the City of Kitchener. Let us come together today, in spirit, to honour the memory of those we have lost in our community, across Canada and around the world. Today, let us also acknowledge everyone who has been impacted by COVID-19 and show our thanks and appreciation to all those who continue to work hard and make sacrifices as we continue the fight against this virus. I know that together, we will beat COVID-19!”