Mr. Speaker, it was a great day yesterday, not just because we spent time with family but because we honoured a great Canadian. In Manitoba, it is known as Louis Riel Day.
He was not just a Métis hero but a patriot who believed in the ideals of justice, love, respect, honesty, courage, humility, knowledge, and effort. He was an example to all Canadians, leading a province into Confederation even upon pain of death and at great personal sacrifice.
He believed in a society where, no matter one's creed, colour, culture, or religion, we all have a rightful place in this world.
With modern human values, he is a true Canadian hero. In his time, he was a traitor, but he is no longer. Hai hai.