Statement by Minister Bennett on Louis Riel Day
OTTAWA, Nov. 16, 2017 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, released the following statement:
"On Louis Riel Day, we pay tribute to the Métis leader and founder of Manitoba, recognize his tireless advocacy for Métis rights, and celebrate Métis culture across the nation.
Louis Riel was a key figure in the formation of Canada. Today, ?Canada and the Métis Nation are committed to working together towards a renewed relationship, based on recognition of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership.
In this spirit of reconciliation, the Government of Canada signed the historic Canada-Métis Nation Accord with the Métis National Council and its Governing Members on April 13, 2017. The Accord advances the shared priorities between the Métis Nation and the Government of Canada including the advancement of self-government, increased social development for their citizens, the acknowledgement and pursuit of Métis rights, and recognition and the commemoration of Louis Riel's role in the expansion of Western Canada. The signing of this Accord established the permanent bilateral table between Canada and the Métis Nation that will advance these commitments.
Echoing that spirit, the RCMP, in partnership with the Manitoba Métis Federation and the Métis National Council, announced that they will return Louis Riel's artifacts currently in their possession to their rightful home, as determined by the Métis Nation. These include Riel's knife, crucifix, and a book of his poems.
Today, all Canadians can be proud of Louis Riel, what he stood for, and what he accomplished. I invite you to celebrate this day by learning about Métis history and culture as we walk the path of reconciliation together.
This statement is also available on the Internet at www.aandc.gc.ca.
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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
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