Prime Minister Mark Carney participated in a ceremony in Winnipeg on Sunday morning to honor the 140th anniversary of Louis Riel’s execution by laying a wreath at Riel’s grave. This event marked a significant moment as it was the first time a sitting prime minister attended the annual commemoration ceremony, according to Manitoba Métis Federation Housing Minister Will Goodon.
During the ceremony at St. Boniface Cathedral Cemetery, MMF President David Chartrand expressed the importance of Carney’s presence, stating that Louis Riel would have been deeply honored by the prime minister’s tribute. Chartrand highlighted Riel’s belief that one day his contributions would be acknowledged, a prophecy fulfilled by Carney’s personal attendance.
Louis Riel, known for leading Métis resistances in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, was executed for treason at the age of 41 in 1885. Despite being viewed as a traitor at the time, Riel is now recognized for paving the way for Manitoba’s entry into Canada’s Confederation. In 1992, he was declared the province’s founder and posthumously appointed as the first honorary premier in 2023.
During his speech at Riel’s gravesite, Prime Minister Carney described Riel as a pivotal figure in Manitoba and Canadian history. He emphasized the role of Riel’s legacy in uniting and reconciling Canada’s past, pledging to work towards Indigenous reconciliation.
Premier Wab Kinew, who championed the recognition of Riel as Manitoba’s honorary first premier, expressed pride in Carney’s attendance at the ceremony. Kinew highlighted the symbolic significance of the prime minister’s presence, noting that it signifies the ongoing relevance of Riel’s legacy in contemporary times.