Statement by Liberal Party of Canada Leader Justin Trudeau on Louis Riel Day

February 16, 2015

OTTAWA – Liberal Party of Canada Leader, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Louis Riel Day:

“I am delighted to join with the Métis Nation, Manitobans, and Canadians across the country today to commemorate the iconic Louis Riel.

“With a steadfast commitment to protecting minority rights and the French language, Riel fought for the very values that Canadians hold dear – equality, pluralism, and social justice. His many sacrifices have secured him an enduring place in our shared history as a champion of the Métis people, a founder of Manitoba, and a key contributor to Canadian Confederation.

“On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada and our Parliamentary Caucus, I join with Canadians in honouring Louis Riel, and celebrating the ongoing contributions of Métis communities to our great country.”