The Metis Nation of Ontario branch in Dryden took time today (Saturday) to commemorate the legacy of Louis Riel and his important role in Metis history and the formation of Canada.
A flag raising ceremony was held outside City Hall and local Metis Council Senator Al Roussin stated it’s an important moment for all Canadians.
“There is a lot of history in and around and it’s very interesting to find out and learn more about the situation there, of all the people in that area, where he was active.”
On November 16th 1885, Riel was executed for leading the Northwest Resistance in defence of Metis rights.
In 2009, Canada reversed the conviction of Louis Riel for high treason and recognized his role as a prominent Metis leader and founder of Manitoba, and as a Father of Confederation.
Riel negotiated the entry of Manitoba into Confederation on July 15, 1870 and was elected to the House of Commons three times.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford says “Louis Riel was a central figure in the confederation of Canada and the protection of the rights and culture of Metis and Francophones in Canada. His work to protect minority language rights helped to lay the groundwork for the multicultural Ontario that exists today.”
Al Roussin says the occasion is also an opportunity to recognize the important work their branch does in the community.
“We want to keep our programs going here in town. Our health programs, our training and education programs for our youth. It’s very important that, even us as older people, kind of lead the way for our youth in the future.”
