Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Louis Riel (1844-1885)

Posted on Tuesday, October 17th, 2023

From the 2023 Algonquin College (AC) Workforce Diversity Summary Report, we learned that of the 2% of Indigenous identifying employees, a significant proportion (47%) self-identify as Métis peoples. In light of this information, we’re spotlighting an important historical figure for Métis people and in fact for everyone in Canada: Louis Riel.

While most often remembered on November 16^th, the anniversary of his death by hanging in 1885, many Métis communities prefer to commemorate his life and legacy on his birthday. Born in St. Boniface, Red River Settlement (present day Manitoba) in 1844, Louis Riel was a French Métis leader who made a big impact towards the development of Canada and the inclusion of Métis peoples.

What’s the significance of Louis Riel’s Legacy?

Elected to the house of commons three times, Riel was most notably a politician, and a charismatic leader of the Métis nation. He represented Métis people’s needs at the time and helped in establishing rights for them.

One of his most significant contributions was establishing a provisional government which led to the Manitoba Act of 1870 which in turn led to the founding of the province of Manitoba. While recognized as a Father of Confederation, Riel also led two resistance movements against the Canadian government in defense of the Métis and ultimately gave his life for justice and recognition of the rights of Métis peoples.

To learn more about the impact of Louis Riel’s legacy today, check out our inaugural episode of ‘AC Bright Ideas’, where we had a chat with AC’s Indigenous pedagogy and learning consultant, Sheila Grantham. Click here for the video interview.

Resources

To learn more about Louis Riel and Métis peoples and culture check out these resources:

• Gabriel Dumont institute: https://gdins.org/metis-culture/
• Rupert lands institute https://www.rupertsland.org/metis-homeland/
• Metis Nation Ontario https://www.metisnation.org/
• CBC interview with Jean Teillet, Riel’s great grandniece and author of the book “The North-West is our Mother”: Louis Riel’s great-grandniece Jean Teillet continues to speak out about Métis legacy and recognition | CBC Radio

Did you know? Algonquin College has two Indigenous pedagogy and learning consultants; those who would like more information on Métis teaching and learning resources can contact Sheila Grantham.

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