February 20, 2023
Statement from Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Eileen Clarke on Louis Riel Day
Today we recognize Louis Riel Day and encourage all Manitobans to join the Manitoba government in remembering the leadership and legacy of Louis Riel, and commemorating his enduring impact on the province and the shaping of Manitoba’s history.
On Sept. 26, 2007, the Manitoba legislature established a statutory holiday on the third Monday in February to be known as Louis Riel Day. The holiday was first celebrated on Feb. 18, 2008.
Louis Riel is recognized as a symbol of strength and resistance as he fought and advocated for the Métis people and, as a catalyst in the creation of Manitoba, is regarded as the founder of the province. His contributions toward justice for Métis rights and cultural representation defined him as a leader and that is why over a century later he is still celebrated across Canada.
Riel was born in 1844 in the Red River Settlement. He was elected president of the provisional government formed during the Red River Resistance of 1869-70 and negotiated Manitoba’s entry into Confederation in 1870. He was elected as a member of Parliament on three occasions, but political pressures kept him from serving in the role. Riel lived in exile in the United States, but returned to Canada in 1884 to defend the rights of Métis to land and cultural practices. Those advocacy efforts prompted a military response from the Canadian government that culminated in the Northwest Resistance, which eventually led to Riel’s surrender on May 15, 1885. Found guilty of treason and sentenced to death, Riel was hanged in Regina on Nov. 16, 1885.
In observance of this provincial statutory holiday in honour of Riel’s life, Manitobans are encouraged to learn more about Métis culture and take part in learning opportunities and celebrations being held across the province.
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