MPP Ernie Hardeman Introduces Bill to Establish Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day in Ontario

November 27, 2025

Industry champion Danny Murrell of Harrison Staffing worked closely with MPP Hardeman to recognize Ontario’s frontline hospitality workforce

WOODSTOCK – Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman has moved his Private Member’s Bill one step further in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, with the bill reaching second reading today. The bill would designate February 23 each year as Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day.

The proposal shines a spotlight on the people who power Ontario’s hospitality sector. “Behind every memorable experience, whether it’s a welcoming place to stay, a delicious meal, a vibrant cultural moment, an outdoor adventure, or the journey that takes you there, are dedicated hospitality workers bringing it all to life,” said MPP Hardeman. “This bill is about giving them the credit they’ve earned and long deserved.”

If passed, Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day will celebrate the skill and dedication of those who keep Ontario’s vibrant hospitality sector running. It’s intended to not only foster pride and elevate recognition of their vital contributions, but also to help attract and retain talent in an industry that is a cornerstone of Ontario’s economy. The bill further encourages Ontarians to support local restaurants, hotels, tourism operations, arts, culture, and heritage, as well as small businesses.

This landmark initiative has been championed by industry leaders, most notably Danny Murrell, whose company, Harrison Staffing, has become a model for ethical and empowering employment in the hospitality sector. Drawing on his own journey as an immigrant who found his footing in Ontario’s hospitality sector, Danny worked closely with MPP Hardeman to bring forward the idea for this bill, ensuring that the voice and experiences of frontline workers were central to its development.

“Hospitality gave me my first chance to work, build stability, and start toward my Canadian dream,” said Danny Murrell. “I’m grateful to see this bill move forward, not only as overdue recognition for hospitality professionals, but as a meaningful step in supporting workers’ well-being and long-term success. At Harrison Staffing, we see every day how powerful it is to value, empower, and celebrate the people at the heart of this industry.”

Ontario’s hospitality sector is one of the province’s largest employers, with more than 426,700 people working in accommodation and food services in 2023, about 5.4% of the provincial workforce. While the United States recognizes Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day on February 23, Ontario has not yet had an official day to honour its own hospitality professionals.

“Hospitality isn’t just where careers start; it’s where they grow,” added MPP Hardeman. “These workers do more than provide a service; they support communities right across Ontario.”

Industry organizations, including the Ontario Restaurant, Hotel and Motel Association (ORHMA), the Greater Toronto Hotel Association (GTHA), the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO), Smart Serve Ontario, Restaurants Canada, and leading employers such as Harrison Staffing, have voiced strong support for this important step forward.

With Ontarians increasingly supporting local travel, independent restaurants, and homegrown businesses, this is a pivotal moment for the province to formally recognize the people who make those experiences possible. Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day aims to honour the workers who contribute so much to Ontario’s economy and community spirit, and to inspire continued growth and excellence across the sector.

About Harrison Staffing

Harrison Staffing is a leading event staffing company renowned for delivering exceptional service in hospitality and event production. Servicing events throughout Toronto, Ottawa, and Montréal, Harrison Staffing is guided by a people-first philosophy that empowers its employees, guaranteeing outstanding service and a seamless event experience for every client.

Quotes

“We deeply appreciate this recognition of the hardworking people who power Ontario’s tourism and hospitality industry. From hotels and restaurants to attractions, events, and travel services, these professionals are the heart of every visitor experience. MPP Hardeman’s initiative underscores their essential contribution to our economy and to the vitality of communities across the province. We are proud to support the creation of Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day and the well-deserved spotlight it places on the people who make our industry thrive.”

Andrew Siegwart

President and CEO – Tourism Industry Association of Ontario

“Smart Serve Ontario trains more than 140,000 hospitality workers each year to provide responsible alcohol service across the province. These professionals are the face of Ontario’s hospitality sector—delivering excellent customer experiences while safeguarding their guests and communities. They take seriously their legal and ethical responsibility to prevent over-service and promote safety. It’s time we recognize and thank them for their essential contributions to our economy and for the care they show every day in building a safer, more responsible Ontario. Smart Serve Ontario is proud to support the proclamation of February 23rd as Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day.”

Richard Anderson

Executive Director – Smart Serve Ontario

“Ontario’s hospitality workers are the heart of our communities. They welcome guests and share in birthdays, weddings, and life’s biggest celebrations — creating the framework for memorable experiences that bring people together. The Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA) is proud to support the proclamation of February 23rd as Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day. This recognition honours the dedication and contributions of workers in restaurants, hotels, catering, and event venues, while also encouraging Ontarians to support and celebrate a sector that is vital to our economy and local communities. Marking this day will help spotlight workforce pride, promote tourism, and strengthen investment in Ontario’s hospitality industry.”

Tony Elenis

President and CEO – Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association