Louis Riel Day takes on Greater Importance

MEDIA RELEASE

Louis Riel Day takes on Greater Importance

Winnipeg, MB (November 16, 2010) – Métis National Council (MNC) President Clément Chartier joined Métis from across the homeland today at the gravesite of Louis Riel in Winnipeg. 125 years ago, the Métis Leader was hanged for treason after leading the 1885 North-West Resistance and the Red River Resistance of 1869. This year’s commemoration adds even greater significance to the Métis Nation because of 2010 being declared Year of the Métis Nation.

On Monday, the Manitoba Government unveiled the Manitoba Métis Policy Framework recognizing the significant contributions the Métis have made in the political and social history of Manitoba. Of particular note is Manitoba’s acknowledgment of the provinces first provisional government which was lead by Louis Riel.

President Clément Chartier stated, “It cannot be underestimated what the Government of Manitoba’s recognition means for the Métis people. Clearly, it shows not only to Manitobans but all Canadians, the significant role our Métis ancestors played in building this country.”

President Chartier added, “I was moved when the historical documents and photographs of Louis Riel and the legislative assembly of Assiniboia were unveiled in the Manitoba Legislature which is where they will remain for all to see, learn and share in Canada’s rich history.”

The MNC represents the Métis Nation in Canada at the national and international levels. The Métis Nation’s homeland includes the 3 Prairie Provinces and extends into Ontario, British Columbia, the Northwest Territories and the northern United States. There are approximately 350,000 – 400,000 Métis Nation citizens in Canada, roughly a quarter of all Aboriginal peoples in the country.

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For more information contact:

Robert McDonald, MNC at (613) 232-3216 or (613) 292-8606 mobile