Mr. Speaker, on November 16, I joined Manitoba's Métis community in commemorating the death of Louis Riel. It is important that all of us, Métis and non-Métis, remember and come together on this important day.
On November 16, 1885, Louis Riel was hanged. Riel fought the government of the newly-formed Canada from taking their Red River lands without consultation. His many sacrifices have secured him an enduring place in our shared history as a leader of the Métis Nation, a founder of Manitoba and a key contributor to Canadian confederation.
His legacy is clear. In Manitoba, a school division, a college, a bridge and an economic development corporation all bear his name.
Across Canada, monuments to Louis Riel are a testament to his lasting legacy. I am a proud member of the Métis Nation.
As a proud Métis, it is a privilege for me to rise today and pay tribute to Louis Riel.