In recognition of Louis Riel Day, happening this Saturday, U of G will raise the Métis flag on Friday, November 15.
According to the Métis Nation of Ontario, although Louis Riel Day marks the day of his execution, commemorating a great tragedy in Canadian history, it is also a day to highlight Métis resilience, to recognize their contributions to Canadian society and to celebrate Métis culture and way of life.
Louis Riel Day programming starts Nov. 14 with an educational workshop on Louis Riel and the Northwest Rebellion facilitated by the Grand River Métis Council at the Aboriginal Resource Centre. The workshop runs from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
On Nov. 15 at 10 a.m., by the south entrance of the University Centre, the Métis flag will be raised. Programing includes:
- Remarks from the Grand River Métis Council President and Aboriginal Resource Centre staff
- Raising of the Métis flag
- Coffee, tea, snacks and conversation in the Aboriginal Resource Centre in the Federal Building (620 Gordon St.).
For more information visit GryphLife.ca.
The Métis were defeated at the siege of Batoche and the Canadian Government captured, tried and convicted Louis Riel of treason. The Métis Nation of Ontario says that, as a result, Métis people across Canada were labelled as traitors and for generations, many felt the need to hide their Métis culture and heritage. They explain that despite this oppression, Métis have found ways to preserve, thrive and pass on their cultural knowledge to present and future generations.