Riel commemorative gathering largest since 1985

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More than 200 guests crowded into the rotunda at the Alberta Legislature on Nov. 16 to pay homage to Louis Riel, a Metis political leader hanged for treason in 1885 for his part in the Northwest Rebellion.

The Metis community annually conducts remembrance services, a reception and cultural activities in commemoration of Riel. As is customary, Edmonton's city council declared the week of Nov. 16 Metis Week and allowed the community to fly one of its flags in front of city hall throughout its duration.

Brian Fayant, Zone 5 president of the Metis Nation of Alberta, told commemoration participants they were celebrating one of the saddest days in Canada. He encouraged visitors to remember how the commemoration ceremonies originated with just a handful of people in 1985, the 100th anniversary of Riel's death, and then grew from there.

Pearl Calahasen, member of the provincial legislature, spoke of the strength Riel provided as a leader of the Metis and the principles he nurtured. Calahasen said that "Riel's time has finally come" and that the federal government would soon recognize him as a founding father of this country.

A private members' bill is before the federal Parliament that requests exoneration (freedom from blame) for Riel. The request for exoneration is one step beyond a request for a pardon, which implies guilt on Riel's part. The bill is backed by thousands of Metis and non-Metis in Canada, as well as in the United States.

Metis Nation president Audrey Poitras asked people to carry on Riel's "hopes, dreams and aspirations." She said Riel's prophecy of a Metis rebirth within a century of his death is now a reality.

"The government has recognized him as a Father of Confederation and Founder of Manitoba and the process of exoneration is on the move," she exclaimed.

The gathering at the legislature was followed by a display of clogging by the East Edmonton Seniors Association, a light brunch, and Metis music.

A number of open houses were conducted at Native organizations throughout the city, cultural and historical displays were set up, and a number of singers, musicians and storytellers made appearances at schools to share Metis culture and history.

The week concluded with a banquet and dance sponsored by the Metis Businessmen's Association at the Canadian Native Friendship Centre in Edmonton.