Louis Riel is one of the most controversial figures in Canadian history. Not as well-known or talked about in BC as he is on the prairies, Riel was a politician, founder of Manitoba and a Métis leader who led two uprisings against the federal government to protect Métis culture and, because of those rebellions, was hanged for treason in 1885.
As of April 14, in a unanimous Supreme Court of Canada decision, Métis were given recognition as Indians within the the constitution.
In Powell River, Friends of Louis Riel Society (FLRS) is part of a national organization established to engage Canadians in the reconciliation and exoneration of Riel. Its aim is to right the historical wrongs done to Riel and the Métis nation, calling on the government of Canada to revoke Riel’s conviction.
Zevier Brewer, 17, said he is a proud Métis and Riel’s legacy is of particular significance in his life.
“I am Métis,” said Zevier. “Louis Riel is my hero. He saved the Métis.”
FLRS’ position is that in light of the Supreme Court ruling, Canada’s commitment to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, the 94 recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Canada’s sesquicentennial in 2017, the opportunity exists to rectify the historical wrongs done to Riel and the Métis.
Riel’s story is an important lesson to learn, according to Zevier.
“In grade 10 social studies they emphasize Louis Riel,” he said. “I was surprised how much they talk about the Métis and Louis Riel.”
Zevier just returned from Manitoulin Island, Ontario, where he spent four days talking and sharing with 36 other indigenous youth at Gathering of Youth Wisdom, sponsored by Rideau Hall Foundation.
Zevier Said the gathering was about sharing “the activities we’re doing in our communities and others in their communities. We came together to talk about what we can really do to improve our communities and education for indigenous youth.”
He returned from the gathering with an idea to have workshops and gatherings in Powell River with non-indigenous youth and indigenous youth, to bring two cultures together.
“I’m going to take a leadership role to start reaching out to young Métis. I want to get them involved,” said Zevier.
However, according to Zevier, others do not share his pride in being Métis and it will be harder to get them to embrace their heritage.
Zevier’s father, Powell River city councillor Russell Brewer, understands that disconnect.
According to Russell, who attended Louis Riel Collegiate in St. Boniface, Manitoba, across the river from where Riel spent his early years, Métis people are just starting to reconnect with their culture.
“A lot of Métis are reluctant because it skipped a generation or two,” said Russell. “They’re just sort of shy about asking questions or discovering their culture or re-engaging with their culture.”
Russell also understands where his son is at with discovering his heritage.
“I remember the same conversation with my mom showing me genealogy and lineage,” he said. “I was probably the same age as Zevier, and I just wasn’t that excited until I was in my 20s when I started to appreciate what my mom had to share with me.”
Russell said he also appreciates what Riel means to his culture and to Canada.
“He was a hero,” he said. “We’re in a time in history when he will be recognized as one of the fathers of confederation.
FLRS will commemorate National Aboriginal Day on Saturday, June 18, 7 pm at Cranberry Hall.
