On Feb. 17, 2017, the Métis flag will be raised at University Centre at 10:30 a.m.
Louis Riel Day Celebrations
Louis Riel was the founding father of Manitoba, President of the Legislative Assembly of Assiniboia and in effect, the first Premier of Manitoba.
He was a hero and negotiating partner in Confederation during the Red River Resistance.
Louis Riel Day celebrates the history and events that occurred during Riel’s lifetime, but it is also meant to honour the people Riel defended — the Métis — who effectively disappeared from written history for 50 years after the Battle of Batoche.
The day also celebrates the Métis people’s story of resiliency and re-emergence, with past wrongdoings being recognized and a new generation of Métis youth encouraged to continue the work of their Elders.
Louis Riel Day is officially celebrated in Manitoba on Monday, Feb. 20, 2017, as a provincial holiday.
On Friday, Feb. 17, 2017, the third-annual U of M Louis Riel Day Celebrations will take place at Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge beginning with the raising of the Métis flag at University Centre at 10:30 a.m.
This will be followed by an opening prayer and welcoming remarks with emcee Kristi Perrin (Métis Asper student) at Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge at 11:30 a.m.
Brenda Gunn, Métis lawyer and associate professor at U of M’s Faculty of Law, will give a presentation about the Daniels case: the historic Supreme Court ruling in 2016.
A performance by Métis musicians Melissa St. Goddard and Darren Lavallee will follow and lunch will be served.
The celebration will conclude at 1:15 p.m. with the traditional Adorning of the Sash ceremony at the Louis Riel statue.
The University of Manitoba is celebrating our 140th anniversary this year. This significant year in our story is about honouring our past while looking to the future. Follow the conversation and hear more about our history, people and celebration events at #UM140
Signed photo of Louis Riel, circa 1878. // Photo: U of M Archives and Special Collections