Louis Riel Holiday February 17th


Today is Louis Riel Day, the new holiday in Manitoba. I think it is fitting recognition. Manitoba is an important and Louis Riel is a hero to many Aboriginal people. He fought for their rights and respect and was killed for it. He killed many too but as freedom fighters and during a war everyone is fair game. According to Manitoba history it was Riel who instigated the civil war and for which he was deemed a traitor and the reason given for hanging him in 1885. But he was the proud Metis leader of the Aboriginal people. At that time it was kill or be killed. We know that the power structure can be brutal when they feel their power is threatened and all their stolen wealth are at risk of being taken away, people get really weird and like they get out of their humanity and become a beast. Louis Riel killed legitimately. Some say that he is a murderer and were against naming a holiday after him but they do not get the picture. They do not understand the pain of discrimination and racism and being the underdog of society. I feel the Manitoba Government is right in its choice. It’s about time we recognized our Aboriginal contribution to the Province. Some Aboriginal people say they are in awe that the day was named after Riel. They could not believe it but time wears away even the stones we walk upon. Time is really a healer.
It is great to have a holiday