Establish an international COVID-19 Day of Mourning
The issue
My brother, Francois, was only 38 years old when he lost his life to COVID-19. He fiercely believed in human potential, science, and our ability to innovate to save lives. Nevertheless, when he passed, the world reduced his vibrant life to a statistic and 'underlying conditions' rather than honoring the person he was. Unfortunately, this is a narrative shared by millions of families worldwide.
Over 7 million lives have been lost to COVID-19. Each one of these individuals was more than just a statistic on a news report; they were parents, siblings, children, and friends. For those of us left behind, the grief is overwhelming. Our memories are filled with moments that can never be replicated, and our hearts bear the weight of their absence every single day. Yet, as this global disaster ensues, the emotional toll goes largely unrecognized, and many grieve in solitude and silence.
This is why I am calling for the establishment of an official International COVID-19 Day of Mourning on July 18th. Such a day would not only honor and remember the lives we have lost but would also serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of unity, human resilience, and the profound impact that this virus continues to have on our societies.
Recognizing July 18th as a day of mourning would offer families, like mine, a dedicated time to come together, to grieve openly, and to support one another. It would symbolize global recognition of the loss endured and provide a collective space for healing. Furthermore, it would encourage educational efforts to prevent future pandemics and uphold beliefs in science and innovation, values my brother so passionately championed.
Together, let us urge the United Nations and world leaders to acknowledge this profound tragedy appropriately. Let's establish July 18th as a day dedicated not only to mourning but to rededication—rededication to valuing human life, advancing scientific inquiry, and fostering international cooperation. Let us ensure that the millions who have perished are not forgotten, and that their lives continue to inspire change and resilience.
Please sign this petition to honor our loved ones, inspire future generations, and create a legacy that ensures these emotions and hopes live on. Your support can turn this vision into a reality.
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The issue
My brother, Francois, was only 38 years old when he lost his life to COVID-19. He fiercely believed in human potential, science, and our ability to innovate to save lives. Nevertheless, when he passed, the world reduced his vibrant life to a statistic and 'underlying conditions' rather than honoring the person he was. Unfortunately, this is a narrative shared by millions of families worldwide.
Over 7 million lives have been lost to COVID-19. Each one of these individuals was more than just a statistic on a news report; they were parents, siblings, children, and friends. For those of us left behind, the grief is overwhelming. Our memories are filled with moments that can never be replicated, and our hearts bear the weight of their absence every single day. Yet, as this global disaster ensues, the emotional toll goes largely unrecognized, and many grieve in solitude and silence.
This is why I am calling for the establishment of an official International COVID-19 Day of Mourning on July 18th. Such a day would not only honor and remember the lives we have lost but would also serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of unity, human resilience, and the profound impact that this virus continues to have on our societies.
Recognizing July 18th as a day of mourning would offer families, like mine, a dedicated time to come together, to grieve openly, and to support one another. It would symbolize global recognition of the loss endured and provide a collective space for healing. Furthermore, it would encourage educational efforts to prevent future pandemics and uphold beliefs in science and innovation, values my brother so passionately championed.
Together, let us urge the United Nations and world leaders to acknowledge this profound tragedy appropriately. Let's establish July 18th as a day dedicated not only to mourning but to rededication—rededication to valuing human life, advancing scientific inquiry, and fostering international cooperation. Let us ensure that the millions who have perished are not forgotten, and that their lives continue to inspire change and resilience.
Please sign this petition to honor our loved ones, inspire future generations, and create a legacy that ensures these emotions and hopes live on. Your support can turn this vision into a reality.
The Decision Makers
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Petition created on 18 July 2026