Louis Riel honoured on 139th anniversary of execution [Video]

Nearly 140 years after Louis Riel’s death, dozens gathered to remember Manitoba’s founding father at his gravesite.

Born in Saint Boniface in 1844, Riel was a Métis leader and a key figure in the Red River and North-West resistance. He also helped bring Manitoba into Confederation.

In 1885, Riel was executed after he was found guilty of high treason for his involvement in the resistance to Canada’s encroachment on Métis territories. However, earlier this year, he was officially recognized as Manitoba’s first premier.

Louis Riel was executed on Nov. 16, 1885 after he was found guilty for high treason. Uploaded Nov. 16, 2024. (Dan Timmerman/CTV News Winnipeg)

On Saturday, Riel’s life and legacy was honoured by a commemorative ceremony led by the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF).

“His memory has persevered, it is even growing stronger, and it’s such a good thing that folks who represent Canada, Manitoba and others come …