NEMA to Host Louis Riel Day in Dawson Creek with Music, Brunch, and Dinner Festivities

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — Dawson Creek-based North East Métis Association (NEMA) has announced its plans to celebrate Louis Riel Day on Saturday, November 16th.

A polarizing figure in Canadian History, Louis Riel was known for two of the nation’s historical uprisings: The Red River resistance in Manitoba in 1869 and 1870 and the North-West rebellion of the 1880s.

The former led to the formation of the province of Manitoba, in which Riel was instrumental. The latter led to Riel’s arrest and trial for high treason related to the murder of Thomas Scott, a member of the Red River Settlement who was executed in 1870.

For his part, Riel was executed for his alleged crimes in 1885. While dismissed as simply a rebel by earlier historians, the modern context sees Riel as a sympathetic figure who fought to protect the Métis people from the Canadian government.

The first observance of the day that bears Riel’s name was celebrated in Manitoba in 2008. The NEMA received a proclamation for Louis Riel Week earlier in November

“Louis Riel is the leader of the Métis nation,” explained NEMA president Brenda House. “He was unlawfully killed for believing in our Métis nation.”

“He [was believed to have said] that within 100 years, our Métis Nation will rise. I believe we’re at that point where our voices are being heard, and we want our place in society as our own people.”

Day-long festivities will include a brunch and entertainment featuring an open mic. Musicians Young Country will also perform, with a dinner rounding out the festivities at 5:00 p.m.

House says younger generations of Métis have embraced Riel’s story and continue to celebrate his legacy, some 140 years after his passing, that the culture of the Métis people is not being “shunned” anymore.

“I believe it’s coming around,” said House. “I’ve got younger nephews and nieces who are being taught from a young age of our Métis culture.”

Celebrations will take place at NEMA headquarters located at 1005a 102 Avenue in Dawson Creek on Saturday, November 16th, starting at 10:00 a.m. 

Further information can be found on the NEMA Facebook page.