Louis Riel Day

November 16 marks the anniversary of the execution of Métis leader Louis Riel in 1885. Riel is considered the “Father of Manitoba,” with his legacy as a defender of the Métis way of life focused on preserving the culture and rights of Métis peoples and their homelands in the Northwest as these lands progressively shrunk under colonial expansion. This national day acknowledges and celebrates the Métis culture and the contributions of the Métis people across Canada and highlights the struggles that Métis continue to face.

Louis Riel Day also represents one of many steps on Ontario’s journey of healing and reconciliation with Indigenous people and responds to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.