Louis Riel Day

Louis Riel Day Quick Facts

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2024 DateFebruary 19, 2024
2025 DateFebruary 17, 2025

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Louis Riel Day seeks to honor the contributions of Louis Riel, a Métis leader and the founder of the province of Manitoba. The day is dedicated to celebrating and acknowledging Riel's leadership in the fight for the rights, culture, and identity of the Métis people and their role in shaping the nation. As a pivotal figure in Canadian history, Louis Riel remains a symbol of perseverance and the multicultural values embraced in modern Canada.

Louis Riel was born in 1844 near modern-day Winnipeg, in the Red River Settlement. With ancestral ties to both Indigenous and European families, Riel saw the challenges this unique area faced during Canadian westward expansion. He gained prominence as the leader of the Métis during the Red River Resistance of 1869-1870. This rebellion sought to preserve Métis rights and customs against encroaching Canadian governance. Riel's important role led to the creation of the province of Manitoba in 1870. Riel's actions were not without controversy, leading to tensions within Canada and ultimately his trial and execution for treason in 1885.

To observe Louis Riel Day, Manitobans typically commemorate Riel’s contributions through various events and celebrations. Community gatherings, educational activities, and cultural performances are organized, showcasing traditional Métis customs and heritage. Established in 2008, Louis Riel Day is celebrated on the third Monday of February each year, providing residents with a long weekend and the opportunity to reflect on the historical significance and the legacy of Louis Riel in Manitoba and Canada as a whole. Louis Riel Day is a provincial statutory holiday observed in Manitoba, Canada,

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Top facts about Louis Riel Day

  • In 1992 the Canadian parliament passed a resolution declaring Louis Riel as the founder of Manitoba.
  • Louis Riel Day was decided by Manitoba schools in 2008. Schools were invited to name the province's new holiday. 114 schools responded with different suggestions that all reflected Manitoba's culture and history. Louis Riel Day was the winning entry.
  • Louis Riel was hanged in 1855 for his rebellion against the Canadian government. Riel had sought to aid the Métis people but he was largely ignored. This led him to challenge the Canadian government. He was defeated however, at the battle of Batoche in Saskatchewan. At his trial, it should be noted that Louis Riel rejected the claim that he was insane. He was found guilty of treason and hanged November 16th, 1885. His execution was widely opposed in Quebec.
  • Riel led two major rebellions — the Red River Rebellion of 1869-1870 and the North-West Rebellion of 1885 — to fight for Métis rights and their vision of a multicultural Canada. In the process, he helped establish the province of Manitoba.
  • The Canadian government posthumously exonerated Riel of the charge of treason in 1992, recognizing him as a leader who fought to protect the rights and identity of the Métis people.

Top things to do for Louis Riel Day

  • Explore commemorative monuments and locations on a Louis Riel tour.
  • View a timeline of Louis Riel's life. Learn more about him and his impact on Manitoba.
  • Watch the film Riel (1979). It is about Louis Riel and his rebellion against the Canadian government.
  • Read Louis Riel: Firebrand by Sharon Stewart.

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