RCMP raised the Métis flag at their 'K' Division headquarters this week. (Alberta RCMP)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

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RCMP, PM recognize Métis Week, Louis Riel Day, as events happening all week

Nov 17, 2021 | 2:56 PM

Alberta RCMP and others are recognizing Métis Week, Nov. 14-20.

A flag was raised this week at ‘K’ Division headquarters in honour of the week which celebrates Métis, culture, history and people.

The week also coincides with Louis Riel Day (Nov. 16).

Riel was executed in Regina on Nov. 16, 1885 after returning to Canada from Montana — where he’d been exiled — to help with the Métis cause.

At the time, the Métis were unhappy with not having guaranteed and permanent title to their land.

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That March, in Batoche, Saskatchewan — after the recent formation of the North-West Mounted Police — the Métis proposed taking up arms in a bid to regain land rights.

What’s now known as the North-West Resistance, Riel led the Métis against several thousand Canadian militia, and several hundred North-West Mounted Police. Riel, also leader of the Métis’ provisional government, was ultimately captured, then charged with treason, tried, and killed.

“I am honoured to raise the Métis flag at not only our Headquarters, but at many of our detachments across the province,” said Deputy Commissioner Curtis Zablocki, Commanding Officer of the Alberta RCMP.

“It is meant to reflect the importance of recognizing Métis Week, and the Alberta RCMP’s commitment to strong relationships with the Métis peoples and communities with whom we live and serve.”

The Alberta RCMP adds that it continues its commitment to fostering reconciliation in an environment of ‘renewed and enhanced relationships’ with Indigenous people.

“Listening to our communities, increasing awareness, ongoing dialogues, and celebrating diversity is part of a path forward in the important relationship with the Indigenous people in Alberta,” RCMP say. “The Métis Nation of Alberta will be hosting virtual events throughout the week.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also issued a statement for Louis Riel Day, describing Riel as a politician, impassioned activist, and visionary.

“Louis Riel advocated and fought for equality, social justice, and minority language rights. Although he was elected to represent Manitobans in Ottawa, he was never permitted to take his duly elected seat in Parliament,” the PM said.

“In spite of this injustice, his contributions to defending the rights and culture of the Métis Nation and Francophones have left a lasting impact on Confederation and paved the way for a more inclusive country.”

More information about Métis Week events happening from Nov. 14-20, and about the Métis Nation of Alberta is at albertametis.com.