Mr. Speaker, today, June 19, we mark the 201st anniversary of an event that took place in my riding of Kildonan—St. Paul, which shaped the future of Manitoba, Canada, and marked the birth of a new people.
After years of smouldering conflict known as the Pemmican War, the victory at Frog Plain was a decisive conclusion for the indigenous people led by General Cuthbert Grant. At this battle, the Métis flag of infinity flew. Will Goodon of the Manitoba Métis Federation says the battle started a “spark of consciousness” that marked the founding of the Métis nation.
In this 150th year of Confederation, we should remember that what we now call Canada has always been home to many peoples.
The birth of the Métis nation marked something new and unique on this continent: the beginning of a proud history that we continue to write, even today.