The President of the AMBM, Ivan Normandeau, issued the following statement on the occasion of Louis Riel Day, this Monday, February 15, 2021 :

On this Louis Riel Day, my thoughts turn to this extraordinary Francophone Métis political leader, the founder of our province.

Thanks to Riel, the French fact is firmly rooted in Manitoba’s DNA.

Riel championed a bilingual Manitoba constitution that respected the rights of the Métis and minorities. He was a leader of the Red River Resistance, a defender of our official languages and a precursor of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

It is because of Riel’s vision, values of caring, perseverance and justice, and his courageous actions that our Francophone and bilingual communities are strong and resilient today. That we continue to believe strongly in a better future together, that we continue to build for the future.

The Manitoba of 2021 reflects Riel’s vision: a province where all cultures are respected, where the rights of all are respected and represented.

The Manitoba of 2021 is a culture of diversity, a great all-inclusive province. Because the diversity of individuals leads to a diversity of knowledge and experience. Because from this diversity, a common vision can be built. And because together, we go so much higher and further.

The Manitoba of 2021 is all of us, whoever we are: First Nations, Métis, Francophones, Anglophones, newcomers, pioneers, and so on.

Thanks to Louis Riel, we can all say that Manitoba is home, where we love to live, grow and thrive.

Manitoba’s bilingual municipal leadership is committed to pursuing this vision, alongside Manitoba’s Métis, First Nations and Francophone community.

The AMBM wishes an excellent Louis Riel Day to all Manitobans.

For more information: Justin Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, 204-289-4077, [email protected].