OTTAWA –Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff made the following statement commemorating Louis Riel Day:
“Today we remember Louis Riel as a symbol of the struggles that Canada had to endure in our early history. To this day, Louis Riel’s legacy continues to be a topic of national importance. Whether he is remembered as a defender of the Métis people, the founder of Manitoba, or a Father of Confederation, the lore of Louis Riel is central to Canada’s past.”
“Louis Riel reminds us that struggle to shape Canada included the Métis peoples. He fought to protect Métis rights and culture and was a strong voice for the Métis people during a turbulent time in Canadian history. Canada’s Métis Nation is a vibrant part of our national identity – and their strength as a people can be traced back to Louis Riel’s efforts.”
“Today, on the anniversary of his death, the Liberal Party of Canada and our Parliamentary caucus joins with all Canadians in celebrating the life of Louis Riel, and the culture, language, and heritage of Canada’s Métis people.”
